Isaiah 40:1-11; Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13; 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8

Lord, you were favorable to your land;

you restored the fortunes of Jacob.

You forgave the iniquities of your people; 

you pardoned all their sin.

Let me hear what God the Lord will speak,

for he will speak peace to his people,

to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.

Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him,

that his glory may dwell in our land.

Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet;

righteousness and peace will kiss each other.

Faithfulness will spring up from the ground,

and righteousness will look down from the sky.

The Lord will give what is good,

and our land will yield its increase.

Righteousness will go before him,

and will make a path for his steps.

Dear Lord,

Help us always to be grateful for the blessings you have bestowed on us in this country. May we always pray for guidance for our leaders, and those of other countries, and for peace among all nations. Amen.

Offered on December 7, 2014, by Mary Roberson, financial advisor, prayer hotline volunteer, child of God, who was a young child when Pearl Harbor was bombed.