Lord God,
Let us remember to always be thankful
for Your provision, guidance and grace.
As You sent John the baptist to prepare
the world for Jesus' ministry, empower us
to prepare ourselves for Jesus' return
and to show others the way to Him.
While we look forward to celebrating
Jesus' birth, help us to be ever-mindful of
the reason for His life and death - our salvation.
Work in us and through us to bring Your
message of mercy to a world in need.
We pray this in Jesus' holy name.
Amen.