O Lord, you created this world for us to enjoy. From the beginning, you knew that we would choose to go our own way. The plan of redemption through the sacrifice of your own son was in your mind. In this season of Advent, we remember your gift of Jesus and we look forward to His promised return. May we live out your hope in the moments of the mess of our fallen world. As you are the light of the world, let us reflect it. Amen.

Prayer by Sheila Dailie

Then Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus, and asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus answered, “Do you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?” Pilate replied, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests have handed you over to me. What have you done?” Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.”

John 18:33-36