He carries his flock like a shepherd: he gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.
Isaiah 40:11 NIV

Loving God, we consider these words written by Isaiah and echoed by Jesus, who said “I am the good Shepherd ..they.. will listen to my voice and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” (John 10: 14/16)

Loving God, we praise you that your plan of salvation, in place since the beginning of time, and foretold by Isaiah long before Jesus was born, was willingly and perfectly carried out by Jesus. We praise and thank you for your heart of love for us.

As we listen to words of preparation for Christmas, to songs and carols, both old and new, may we hear your voice speaking into our lives today. May we be willing to respond to the eternal voice of love that reaches out to each and every one of us;  the voice that leads us on; the voice that speaks of a love and a peace to be found in and through Jesus.  Loving God, unite us by your Holy Spirit as we prepare, share and celebrate, that others may be embraced and enfolded to your heart.  Amen.

Ruth Rushworth