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New every morning is your love, great God of light, and all day long you are working for good in the world. Stir up in us desire to serve you, to live peacefully with our neighbors and all your creation, and to devote each day to your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

"A Liturgy for Morning Prayer," Upper Room Worshipbook

Used by permission from the Book of Common Worship, © 2018 Westminster John Knox Press. All rights reserved. This prayer appears in “A Liturgy for Morning Prayer” in Upper Room Worshipbook.

Today's Reflection

DURING THE busyness and chatter of this season of the year, I can carve out space and time to sit in silence, quiet my inner noise, and turn toward God. … Whenever I feel overwhelmed and speeded up, I turn my attention inward, close my ears to outward noise, take some deep breaths, and sink down into the welcoming silence of the heart of God.

I invite you to be silent with God today. Take five, ten, or fifteen minutes to be still in God’s presence. Don’t worry if you are not successful during the first try. This discipline grows with practice. Keep carving out some space during each day. Have hope; God is there, waiting for you.

—Beth A. Richardson, The Uncluttered Heart: Making Room for God During Advent and Christmas (Upper Room Books, 2009)

Today's Question

How can you make space to encounter God in silence?  

Today's Scripture

“For God alone my soul waits in silence,
for my hope is from him.”

—Psalm 62:5 (NRSV)

Prayer for the Week

Clear away the clutter, O God, that I might have more room for you.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room .

Something More

Slow down, simplify, and add a burst of color to your Advent. The spiritual practice of coloring mandalas (circular designs), lighting candles, and praying regularly can help us stay centered on God during this busy time of year. Give it a try. Color as you pray this Advent season.

Lectionary Readings

(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)

Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.

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