Loving and gracious Father, we thank you for this season of expectant delight, this season of joyful hope, this season set aside for our inner growth. As our Heavenly Potter, mold us into a people of hope, who mirror Your Son’s trust that You are always at work in the world. Enlighten our eyes to be ever watchful for Your presence. Fire us with strength to imitate Your Son by sharing the joys as well as the burdens of our fellow pilgrims on this journey to Christmas. Help us to use this season wisely as we strive to hasten your kingdom here on earth. We ask this and all prayer through Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, who will come again. Amen.