We, the people of God, have taken a deep breath, collectively.
We hold it fast, our lungs beginning to burn.
We are expectant. We won’t let it go, this breath we hold. We won’t let it go until He comes.
We know He came; we know He will come again. But today, He comes?
We can’t hold it any long. We exhale, breathless.
Yes, He is here. Here among us.
We don’t wait in vain.
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A prayer for the third Sunday of Advent from The Book of Common Prayer.
Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever.
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More Advent links . . .
Laura’s beautiful Gaudete! (Rejoice!)
Deidra’s elegantly simple Sunday
It’s beautiful, isn’t it?
This rich image of the holding of the breath.
Collectively.
Reverently.
So sweetly and so urgently.
I am awaiting a renewal of my faith this holiday season.
What a beautiful prayer. This reminds me what Gandalf said to Pippen when they were at Gondor waiting for the attack. Pippin remarked how quiet it was and Gandalf said, “It’s the deep breath before the plunge.” Sometimes I feel like i’m holding my breath, waiting. Other times, it seems I’m out of breath.
Thanks for sharing this, Charity.
Amen!