Welcome to the Prayers of Rest podcast.

I'm your host, Ashrita Chuchu, and this Advent season, we're praying for joy together, focusing on some traditional and non-traditional Christmas passages.

So take a deep breath and quiet your heart as we become aware of God's loving presence around us and within us.

Today's passage comes from Luke chapter 2 verses 9 to 11.

Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded

them.

They were terrified.

But the angel reassured them, don't be afraid, he said.

I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.

The Savior, yes, the Messiah, the Lord, has been born today

in Bethlehem, the city of David. Let's begin by reciting God's goodness. Oh God, how good

you are that you would send your own son to be the Savior of the world.

Thank you, Lord, that you announced his birth, his miraculous entrance into the world,

not to the highest and the mightiest of the people, but you sent this angel to announce it to the

shepherds. Thank you, God, that you are the one who sees those who are invisible to the rest of

society. You see those who feel marginalized and pushed to the sides, those who feel disqualified.

God, in your kingdom, are pre-qualified to receive your joy and your grace.

We join with the shepherds in rejoicing in this good news of great joy.

Thank you, Jesus, for entering this world.

Thank you for bringing joy to even those who are humble and heart.

Thank you for being our Savior, Christ the Lord, born in a lowly manger. We celebrate

your birth today. So take a moment now to praise the God of heavens who would reveal himself to the lowliest of people, even us. Let's continue now by expressing our neediness.

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