CONFESSION
Lord God,
We praise you for sending your light and love—Jesus the Messiah—into this world.
We confess that we often live like the light did not defeat the darkness.
We confess that we often live as though Jesus is not returning in glorious light.
We sometimes confine Christ to parts of our lives and our faith becomes small.
We do not joyfully serve and expectantly worship.
Forgive us for ignoring Jesus’ light.
Prepare us for His return.
Help us rejoice in the light,
So your grace illumines the dark places of our hearts, our city and our world.
Amen.
ASSURANCE
The God who promised never to leave us or forsake us,
has come to us in Jesus Christ, the light of the world.
He binds up the broken-hearted,
heals all our infirmities,
and relieves our burden of sin.
While it is true that we have sinned,
It is a greater truth that, in Christ Jesus, we are forgiven.
God has shown his love for us in that while we were sinners, Christ died and rose for us.
Arise, shine; for his light has come,
And the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
Thanks be to God!
*Taken from City Life Church Christmas Eve liturgy.