Supplies needed: Bible, lighter/matches, 5 candles (individual or part of an advent wreath/log)
Luke 1:46-55 NRSVUE
46 And Mary said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked with favor on the lowly state of his servant.
Surely from now on all generations will call me blessed,
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name;
50 indeed, his mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones
and lifted up the lowly;
53 he has filled the hungry with good things
and sent the rich away empty.
54 He has come to the aid of his child Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”
Light 3 candles (if you have a pink one, it is appropriate to light it today).
Discussion: When did you last rejoice or express joy? What caused it? Tell us the scene.
Reflection: When have you been most joy-filled? How have you shared that joy with others? What joy did others share with you?
Awareness: Joy is most alive when in the midst of community. Find opportunities to rejoice with others this week.
Pray:
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 forever. Amen.
Book of Common Prayer, pg 212.