A Prayer for Advent

Holy Child,

whom the shepherds
and the kings,
and the dumb beasts adored,
be born again.

Wherever there is boredom,
wherever there is fear of failure,
wherever there is temptation too strong to resist,
wherever there is bitterness of heart,
come, Thou Blessed One,
with healing in Thy wings.

Savior, be born in each of us
who raises a face to Thy face,
not knowing fully who he is
or who Thou art,
knowing only that Thy love
is beyond his knowing
and that no other has the power
to make him whole.

Come, Lord Jesus,
to each who longs for Thee
even though he has forgotten
Thy name.

Come quickly.

Amen.

- Frederick Buechner

Something Old...

This is a "Scripture Poem" I wrote for my Vocation of Ministry class in seminary. I thought it was worth sharing. I didn't include all the Scripture references...I challenge YOU to find them! :)

My precious, precious child...you are Mine and I love you
I have fearfully and wonderfully made you
And I will carry you and sustain you on this journey of faith

I have called you to this life of ministry
Of sharing My grace with My people
Tell them what I have done for you and how I alone am your source of strength
Speak boldly of My presence in your life
Of My saving grace, overflowing compassion, and great love for you
Tell them about My Son, Jesus...be Jesus for these people

Do not worry, My child, about what you have to offer...
Just trust Me, love Me, and seek Me and I will give you what you need
You cannot imagine the great plans that I have for you
Your future is bright with hope...this is what you were created for
The road ahead is not easy, but I go before you
Just call on Me and I will reveal Myself to you and lead you through
I am your compass and your guide on this incredible journey...do not fear

If you will look to Me for strength, you can accomplish anything...anything
Nothing is impossible for you if you put your trust in Me
Pray and I will answer
Endeavor to speak and I will be your voice
Climb the highest mountain and I will be your feet
Go to battle and I will be your shield
You never walk alone...