#Living Psalm 97:
Three Christmas Collects Susan Blain

Art from Mary Melcher attached as well

1. O Mystery
You hide in the thick of life
--in mist, in shadow, in storm cloud--
to be found unexpectedly in ambiguity and struggle.

Inspire our curiosity
and strengthen our bravery
to seek you through the depths,
not resting until we find you waiting for us
at the center of all--

So may we join you there
creating a foundation of Justice and Peace.

We pray this in the Name of one we call Emmanuel.

2. O Dazzler
Your light comes to us
in flashes of power
shining a way through gloom and confusion
to offer a vision of Hope.

Awaken us to signs of your presence in our lives
--eloquent, fleeting, enough--

That we may recognize
the beauty revealed in your light
and rejoice in your abundant life.

We pray this in the Name of one we call Morning Star.

3. O Radiance
From the center of life you invite us
--to Joy, to Justice, to Community--

You place your power at the service of Love
melting mountains of resistance.

Open us to the wonder of your presence
Bathe us in your renewing Mercy
encourage us to take risks of Hope

That we may grow into a people reflecting your image

illumined by Grace
rejoicing in Love
building a world of Peace

We pray this in the Name of the one we call Wisdom.

The Rev. Susan A. Blain
Hartford, CT