The snare-like suddenness of the Second Coming
Prayer
Contemporary Lectionary Prayers
Based Upon Cycle C Lectionary Gospels
Gospel Theme:
The snare-like suddenness of the Second Coming
Gospel Note:
This passage is a portion of Luke's version of the ''Synoptic Apocalypse,'' and is thus based heavily on Mark 13. But Luke's omissions (v. 27) and his rendering of the fig-tree parable so as to point to the God's coming reign (v. 28) suggest that he has less interest than his source in the details of the ''Son of man'' motif; but his own peculiar ending (vv. 34-36) shows that he is no less sure that the end will come suddenly (''like a snare''), and no less concerned to counsel watchfulness and prayer until ''that day'' comes upon all humanity.
Liturgical Color:
Blue or purple
Suggested Hymns:
This Day Is Surely Drawing Near
Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel
Through The Night Of Doubt And Sorrow
A Stable Lamp Is Lighted
8
Advent 1
Security.
This is what we want, Lord!
The trouble is, we attempt to achieve it on our
own and then ask for your blessing.
We pursue degrees.
We master management techniques.
We develop our professional expertise.
We capitalize on our experiences.
But, inside, where it really counts, we know
the truth:
The harder we work to build ourselves
up, the more hollow we feel inside.
Help us to see that Security is not something we
can ever earn.
Security is a gift.
Security is only discovered when your
Word of Life is believed and lived.
Help us to see that You alone are eternal.
Heaven and Earth are temporary.
Teach us where to look for signs of your Word
at work in the world and in our lives.
Lead us to appreciate our role in building up
your kingdom.
Finally, Lord, grant us patience while your
promise unfolds. Then, we will know the meaning
of True Security.
Amen.
9
The snare-like suddenness of the Second Coming
Gospel Note:
This passage is a portion of Luke's version of the ''Synoptic Apocalypse,'' and is thus based heavily on Mark 13. But Luke's omissions (v. 27) and his rendering of the fig-tree parable so as to point to the God's coming reign (v. 28) suggest that he has less interest than his source in the details of the ''Son of man'' motif; but his own peculiar ending (vv. 34-36) shows that he is no less sure that the end will come suddenly (''like a snare''), and no less concerned to counsel watchfulness and prayer until ''that day'' comes upon all humanity.
Liturgical Color:
Blue or purple
Suggested Hymns:
This Day Is Surely Drawing Near
Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel
Through The Night Of Doubt And Sorrow
A Stable Lamp Is Lighted
8
Advent 1
Security.
This is what we want, Lord!
The trouble is, we attempt to achieve it on our
own and then ask for your blessing.
We pursue degrees.
We master management techniques.
We develop our professional expertise.
We capitalize on our experiences.
But, inside, where it really counts, we know
the truth:
The harder we work to build ourselves
up, the more hollow we feel inside.
Help us to see that Security is not something we
can ever earn.
Security is a gift.
Security is only discovered when your
Word of Life is believed and lived.
Help us to see that You alone are eternal.
Heaven and Earth are temporary.
Teach us where to look for signs of your Word
at work in the world and in our lives.
Lead us to appreciate our role in building up
your kingdom.
Finally, Lord, grant us patience while your
promise unfolds. Then, we will know the meaning
of True Security.
Amen.
9
