Advent Favorites — Henri Nouwen – An Advent Prayer

Note: this is the first in a new series of “Advent Favorites” – the best Advent posts from Advent 2004 -2006 from our old blog site. There will be at least 2-3 new Advent Favorites each week. They’ll all be linked in the Advent section of the sidebar, and also the Special Series section. Enjoy and a Blessed Advent to all our readers!

***

Originally posted: Monday, November 28, 2005

Henri Nouwen — An Advent Prayer

An Advent Prayer from the late Rev. Henri Nouwen — so appropriate for the beginning of Advent and this season which can be so frantic. May the Lord indeed help us quiet our hearts and listen for His voice each day. May we diligently seek to know His presence, rather than allowing our anxious thoughts to distract us and may He tune our ears to hear His counsel.

Lord Jesus, Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.

We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day.

We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.

We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.

We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.

We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light. To you we say, “Come Lord Jesus!”

———

Art Credit: Advent and Triumph of Christ (detail), Hans MEMLING, 1480; Oil on wood, Alte Pinakothek, Munich. Source: Web Gallery of Art.

Prayer Credit: The only publishing information I have found for this prayer is the following: Catholic Family Prayer Book, published by Our Sunday Visitor, 2001.