The multi-dimensional themes of advent are accessible to every age. Hope, peace, joy and love are gifts given in the person of Jesus and this season we take time to unwrap them. It is a significant reflection to participate in. How much more significant for the heart of a child to begin to grasp these rich advent themes! We invite you to pray that children across the world will experience the hope, peace, joy and love that Jesus provides.
Hope. Think of the children who have grown up within the narrative of poverty which has made them feel hopeless. Think of the children who have yet to experience the hope of salvation.
Peace. Think of the children who are in vulnerable situations and need to be protected. Think of the children who carry the worries of this world. Think of the children who have yet to experience the peace that Jesus gives.
Joy. Think of the children who have faced tragedy this year and need a reprieve from grief. Think of the children who need to hear that they have a bright future. Think of the children who have yet to experience the deep residing joy that will carry them through every circumstance.
Love. Think of the children who need to know that they are known and loved. Think of the children who do not know their worth. Think of the children whose hearts need to be captured by the love of Jesus.
This advent season, may we carry these precious themes in our hearts and in our prayers for children all over the world as they celebrate Christmas at their Compassion centres.
Prayer Points
1. Pray that children will have the opportunity to receive the good news of this season.
2. Pray that every child will come to deeply understand the themes of advent in their lives: hope, peace, joy and love.
3. Pray for the local churches as they embody the hope, peace, joy and love of Jesus in their communities. Pray for their ministry in this season.
Lord, we invite you into this Christmas season for children all over the world. Thank you for the ministry of the local churches who are sharing the important themes of advent to children, their families and their communities. We pray that Your hope, peace, joy and love will fill the lives of children and as they put their faith in You. Amen.