third sunday of advent

This is the Sunday the pink candle is lit, representing joy. The lectionary readings are about John the Baptist preparing the way for Israel's true king. It's also often known as the Shepherd candle in the sequence (Prophecy/Hope—Bethlehem—Shepherds—Angels).

Pre-Communion

King Jesus, our lord,

who at your first advent sent your messenger

to prepare the way before you:

grant that the servants and caretakers of your mysteries

may in the same way prepare and make ready your way

by turning the hearts of the disobedient to the wisdom of your justice,

that at your second advent to judge the world

we may be found an acceptable people in your sight;

for you are alive, and you reign with the Father

in the unity of the holy Spirit,

one god, now and forever.

Communion

Post-Communion

We give you thanks, O Lord, for these heavenly gifts;

kindle in us the fire of your Spirit

that when your King comes again

we may shine as lights before his face:

who is alive and reigns now and forever!

May the joy of knowing that God has called you to a life of true justice under his kingship and that his already present kingdom will one day be revealed to all at his second advent be with you today!