We have heard in the gospel today John the Baptist proclaiming a message of repentance and new life. He said: “I baptise you with water” and referring to Jesus John said: “He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”  

Dear friends, we come before God seeking his grace to follow Jesus faithfully in our lives.

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All      hear our prayer.

That the Church in this country may rediscover her Christian origins;
that the Queen as governor of the Church and head of the government may be blessed by God’s Holy Spirit;
that we may all follow God’s heart and obey Him during these difficult times;

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All      hear our prayer.

Loving God, there is so much injustice and suffering in the world. 
Jesus himself underwent suffering and death for our sakes.

As followers of Jesus, help us to nourish in our hearts and in our live a compassionate and caring heart for the poor, weak and vulnerable whoever they are or wherever they come from.. 

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All      hear our prayer.

Merciful God, we remember those who are sick, fearful, sad or lonely;
for those who are brave and patient when things go wrong.

We pray that they may know that in your hands they are safe and loved.

As a Church family, we pray especially for Diana Scammell, Don Whyles, John C., Nadia, Lisa Smith, Peter, Anne and Penny.

We ask you loving God to bless and heal them with your love.

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All      hear our prayer.

Father God, we remember and we pray for those who face the pain of grief at the loss of a loved one. P We pray for Margaret Marshall from Brattleby who died few days ago; let us pray for the bereaved family who are mostly her nieces and nephews.

May Margaret and the grieving dear ones experience the light of hope and love in the Risen Christ;

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All      hear our prayer.

Let us pause a moment…

become aware of our breathing…
relax in the presence of the Lord …
and as we prepare for Christmas,
let us humbly tell him what is deepest in our hearts …
especially to know him, love him and follow him …
for he knows us,
loves us
and forgives us …

After a longer pause …

Father God,
we feel loved,
we feel forgiven,
we feel saved.
Thank you for Jesus Christ your Son
who died for us on the cross
and rose again from the dead
and who offers us true peace
and true hope.
Help us to hold on to him
and to follow him
the way, the truth and the life
as we entrust you our prayers
in the name of your Son Jesus Christ.

Amen.

[Revd Dr ST Mattapally, Rector, Springline Parish, Diocese of Lincoln]