Advent 20

Lord and Christ,

Twice Joseph fell into a pit, but you remained in the grave until the third day. His was a narrow brush with death, but you entered it fully to leave it, conquered, behind you forever. The evil one feigns his resurrection and ascends from the pit, but he and not you will taste the second death.

Now, Lord, let us not fear to be brought low. For as Joseph crept closer to power and prominence, to salvation and blessing, to might and mercy with every fall, so we by daily death draw nearer to the likeness, the presence, the mercy, the ministry of you, our Lord and Christ. Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright. May the Father save our King, and with him exalt all who look to him for their answer. Come, Lord Jesus.