LORD, we live in a world so rich
And yet so many go hungry and deprived of basic necessities
To live a decent life worthy of the dignity of a human being.
This happens because of our indifference to others' needs and sufferings
Even as they struggle to put food on their table
Most of us throw away the surplus that crams our closets.
We celebrate your birth with glittering decors and sumptuous feast
Unconcerned that outside our gates sits Lazarus, waiting
For some leavings to be thrown his way.
When will our eyes be opened to see that we don't live for ourselves
alone?
When will our hearts beat with concern for the least of our brothers and
sisters
In whose imploring eyes are reflected your own image?
Advent Prayer
Lord of hosts,
You promise "a feast of rich food and choice wines" (Is 25)
for your people
And yet many go hungry and deprived of basic needs
Simply because our myopic vision hinders us
To see beyond ourselves
Level our mountain of greed and fill our valleys of indifference with
love
Help us make this celebration of Advent
Truly a season of your coming into our hearts and lives
Genuinely transformed in the awareness
That we co-exist with one another.
And together we can change the world as you envision it. Amen.
