Reader 1:  The first week of Advent we remember the gift of hope we have in Christ. The prophets of Israel all spoke of the coming of Christ, of how a savior would be born, a king in the line of David. They spoke of how he would rule the world wisely and bless all nations. 

Reader 2:  As followers of Christ, we wait with hope for His return. As we light this candle, we remember that it was from the manger at Bethlehem that he came and gave light to the world. As we light this candle, we are reminded to be alert and to watch for the light of Christ even in the most unlikely places and people. (Reader lights the first purple candle on the Advent Wreath.) 

Reader 3:  Let us pray - Loving God, we thank you for the hope you give us. Help us prepare our hearts for the Lord's coming by being open seeing to the light of Christ in others. We ask this in the name of the one born in Bethlehem, Jesus our Lord. 

All: Amen.