P: Blessed are you, O God of the past, present, and future. We praise and thank you for fulfilling the promise of the coming righteous branch from David’s lineage to deliver all humankind from their slavery to sin, death, and evil. The days are surely coming, says the LORD:

C: Hear us and come, Jesus, our righteous branch.

P: God of the covenant, as we begin a new church year, grant us grace to turn away from our sins, and teach us humility to walk on your paths of steadfast love and faithfulness. The days are surely coming, says the LORD:

C: Hear us and come, Jesus, our righteous branch.

P: God of Advent, give us grateful hearts as people of faith to abound in love for one another and for all, as we serve you in the church and the world and prepare for your coming. The days are surely coming,…