Second Sunday of Advent -- Home Liturgy

Second Sunday of Advent, December 9

Light 2 purple candles

Explanation of second candle: The second candle is the candle of peace. With its lighting we are reminded that all men who are outside of Christ are at war with God (Rom. 8:7). Christ, who is called the Prince of Peace by the prophet Isaiah (Is. 9:6), has reconciled us to God by His death. For this reason Ephesians teaches us that “He Himself is our peace,...” (2:14). Though spiritual peace has been won by Christ already, wars still rage upon the earth. When Christ comes again, He will wage the war to end all wars (Rev. 19:11-16). At the conclusion of this decisive battle “there shall no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain” (Rev. 21:4). All will be rest and peace.

Prayer: Merciful God, who sent Your messengers the prophets to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins, that we may greet with joy the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer; Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. In Jesus Name we pray. Amen.

Scripture Reading: Isaiah 9:1-7; Phil. 4:4-7

Hymn: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”