The Preacher's Lectionary Notebook - A Litany for the Season of Christmas on Psalm 147:12-20
The Second Sunday after Christmas (Year A)
Leader: Praise the LORD, O people of God; praise the LORD, O Zion, People: For God has come near in Jesus Christ. Leader: The LORD strengthens the gates of the city and blesses the children within it, People: A child has been born among us, and his name is Prince of Peace. Leader: The LORD grants peace within our borders and satisfies us with the finest gifts, People: We receive the bread of heaven given for the life of the world. Leader: The LORD sends forth a word to the earth; God’s word runs swiftly, People: The Word has become flesh and dwells among us. Leader: The LORD clothes the earth with snow like wool and scatters frost like ashes, People: Creation hushes itself before the mystery of this holy night. Leader: The LORD casts down hail like crumbs— who can stand before such power? People: Yet in mercy, God comes not in fear, but in a child laid in a manger. Leader: The LORD sends out a word and melts the ice; the wind blows, and the waters flow, People: Your love softens hardened hearts and brings life where hope seemed frozen. Leader: The LORD makes the word known to the people and reveals divine ways, People: In Jesus Christ, we behold your glory, full of grace and truth. Leader: Glory to God in the highest! People: And on earth peace, goodwill among all. Leader: Praise the LORD! People: Praise the LORD!