Advent 4 - LOVE

I have a beautiful wreath by my front door. Handmade by volunteers at Priscilla Bacon Lodge, crafted with greenery from the Hospice Gardens. For me, the Christmas wreath symbolises God’s love
It is circular, there is no end to his love
It is evergreen, always fresh – the book of Lamentations reminds us, his mercies are new every morning
It contains rosemary, the herb of remembrance – to remind us of God’s continuing faithfulness. In Isaiah 49 it says “a mother may even forget her child, but I will not forget you”
It contains holly – the baby in the manger grew up and died on the cross for us, the holly leaves represent the crown of thorns, the berries his lifeblood shed for us.
It contains ivy, a symbol of fidelity and lasting love. Romans 8;39 – nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ our Lord.

An Advent Prayer...
We thank you for your unending, unfailing love which is new every morning
For the certainty that nothing in earth or heaven can separate us from it
We thank you for your faithfulness to us down the years
Lord, help us to never take your love for granted
We pray for those around us who do not know your love – help us to share it with them. Not simply with words, but with deeds of lovingkindness. As we have been so blessed, help us to bless others
Lord, help us to never take your love for granted
Help us to remember that our salvation came at a cost
This amazing grace didn’t come cheaply, but your Son suffered and died for us
Lord, help us to never take your love for granted AMEN