Liturgy for the First Sunday of Advent, Year A (Matthew)
Texts: Isaiah 2:1–5; Psalm 122; Romans 13:11–14; Matthew 24:36–44
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What Is Liturgy? A Quick Guide for Worshippers
Liturgy simply means “the work of the people.” It refers to the shared rhythms, prayers, Scriptures, and actions we use in worship to glorify God and shape our hearts. Whether ancient or modern, liturgy invites us to participate—not just observe. Through liturgy, we rehearse the gospel and remember who we are in Christ. If you’re new to liturgy, this weekly resource will help you follow along and enter more deeply into worship.
Summary for Liturgy and Worship
Isaiah 2:1–5 envisions the nations streaming to the mountain of the Lord, where swords are turned into plowshares and war gives way to peace.
Psalm 122 celebrates the joy of entering Jerusalem—the city of peace—calling the people to pray for the well-being of all who dwell there.
Romans 13:11–14 urges believers to wake from sleep, for salvation is nearer now than ever before. We are to put on the armor of light and live honorably as people of the day.
Matthew 24:36–44 calls us to watchfulness and readiness, reminding us that the Son of Man will come at an unexpected hour.
Together, these readings mark the beginning of Advent—a season of hope, expectation, and preparation. We wait not in fear but in faith, trusting that Christ will come again to make all things new.
A number of resources are available for the season of Advent (calls, prayers, confessions, etc). You can check out the Advent page here.
Call to Worship
One: Come, people of God, the light of the world is drawing near.
All: We come to worship, to watch, and to wait.
One: Let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, that we may learn God’s ways and walk in God’s paths.
All: We will walk in the light of the Lord.
One: Come, let us worship the God of hope, peace, and promise.
All: Our hearts are ready, our eyes are lifted, and our hope is in the Lord.
See also: 22 Biblical Calls to Worship and 28 Modern (and Biblical) Calls to Worship.
Opening Prayer
God of light and promise, we begin this Advent season in hope. You call us to wake from sleep, to lift our eyes, and to prepare our hearts for your coming. As we gather in worship, shine your light upon us and within us. Stir our faith, deepen our longing, and kindle our love, that we may be ready to welcome Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
Call to Confession
The night is far gone, and the day is near. Let us cast off the works of darkness and confess our sin before the God who brings light and life.
Prayer of Confession
God of mercy, we confess that we have not kept watch for you. We have been distracted by fear and fatigue, consumed by busyness and blinded by our own desires. We have wandered from your paths and resisted your peace. Forgive us, Lord. Awaken us to your presence. Clothe us in your light and teach us to live as children of the day, trusting in your promise and walking in your truth. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
Hear the good news: “Let the wicked forsake their way, and the unrighteous their thoughts; let them return to the Lord, that he may have mercy on them... for he will abundantly pardon.” In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and made new. Thanks be to God! (Isaiah 55:7)
See also: Assurance of Pardon: Meaning, Scripture.
Prayer for Illumination
God of hope and truth, your Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. As we hear your Scriptures read and proclaimed, awaken us to your coming and prepare our hearts to receive your promise with joy. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
See also: 24 Prayers of Illumination.
Benediction Prayer
Go forth in hope and in peace.
Stay awake, live in the light, and walk in the ways of the Lord.
And may the blessing of God—
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—
be with you now and always. Amen.
See also: 22 Benedictions and Blessings in the Bible, Biblical Blessings: Meaning, Examples, and Relevance Today, and Final Greeting and Benediction (Philippians 4:21–23).
