Collect for the third Sunday in Advent
Collect for the third Sunday in Advent (BCP):
O Lord Jesu Christ,
who at thy first coming didst send thy messenger to prepare thy way before thee:
Grant that the ministers and stewards of thy mysteries
may likewise so prepare and make ready thy way,
by turning the hearts of the disobedient to the wisdom of the just,
that at thy second coming to judge the world we may be found an acceptable people in thy sight,
who livest and reignest with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
ever one God, world without end.
Amen.
Preparation was made for Christ's first coming by John the Baptist, the herald who announced his arrival. Similarly, preparation must be made for his return. Since he will return to judge the world, people must be prepared by turning from disobedience to righteousness. Calling sinners to repentance is the work of ministers, those who are stewards of the mystery of the gospel.
This week, take time out from preparing for Christmas, to prepare for the Lord's return. Turn from disobedience towards righteousness in your own life. Pray for those you love to turn their hearts to the Lord. Share with them the mystery of the gospel.