On Christmas Eve, my Dad and I are leading worship together. Here is the liturgy I wrote for the service, plus a call to worship using words from Isaiah. Dad is working on his sermon about the shepherds, and I am thinking about what I will say to the children about the Advent wreath and lighting the Christ candle. One of the joys of my Christmas will be leading worship with my Dad.
Call to Worship (Isaiah 9: 2-3, 6-7 from the NRSV)
One: The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.
ALL: Those who lived in a land of deep darkness— on them light has shined.
One: You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy.
ALL: They rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.
One: For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders.
ALL: He is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
One: His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom.
ALL: He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
Opening Prayer
On this silent and holy night, we gather here to remember the real reason for this season, Jesus our Savior, who was born this night. We pause to remember, give thanks, hear the old story, and sing the familiar songs. In our traditions and rituals, be revealed to us anew tonight, Jesus. Like the shepherds, we are awake and watching for the angels to direct us in the right path. Amen.
Prayer of Dedication
Giver of All Good Gifts, We thank you tonight for the greatest gift of all, Jesus. And so we give joyfully knowing that all we have is a gift from you and you have entrusted us to use what we have wisely. So take what we have given, multiply it, and use for your good work in the world. Amen.
Prayer of Thanksgiving (After Communion)
On this most holy night, we thank you, Gracious God, for welcoming us at your table. May the welcome we received here inspire us to welcome others and to share your love with all we meet. Strengthen us to welcome the Christ Child into our hearts and our homes and our lives this night. May the light which shines brightly tonight live on in our hearts as we seek to be followers of the star. Amen.
A reassuring liturgy calling us back into God’s love and light from our self-inflicted isolation and darkness. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The ultimate gift that has no equal.
Jim,
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas as you celebrate the greatest gift ever given.
Susannah