Christmas Expectations - Responsive Reading for Christmas Eve

We were expecting a special guest, royalty, a coming King

Receiving instead a humble visitor clothed in frail humanity

We were expecting a conqueror and a warrior

Receiving instead someone who would conquer our sins 

We were expecting a royal court

Receiving instead the brays of donkeys and the company of shepherds

We were expecting a royal pedigree

Receiving instead a line that included prostitutes, adulterers, gentiles, and evil kings

We were expecting a great light

Receiving instead a light that we are to share and to shine

We were expecting an example of boldness and charisma

Receiving instead an example of meekness and humility

Thank you O Lord for teaching us your plans are better than our expectations

And help us, God, to shine Your Kingdom’s light in this dark world

Memorial Litany

 This is a responsive reading/litany for use on Memorial Day, that pairs well with a sermon on unity and the worship songs "Make Us One" and/or "Let the Peace of Christ Rule In Your Heart."  

Leader: As we strive for unity in our homes and churches, our prayer is also for unity in our nation

People: United we stand, divided we fall

Leader: We yearn to be indivisible, yet seem more divided than ever

People: United we stand, divided we fall

Leader: Let the remembrances of the sacrifices of those who paid the ultimate price hold us together on this day.

People: We can stand united, because of the fallen

Leader: Let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts

People: We were fallen in our sins, but can have God’s peace through forgiveness.

Leader: We thank God for His peace that unites us, and pray for peace, unity, and righteousness for our nation.  

People: Lord, hear our prayer for solidarity of heart this day. 

Leader: Amen.