Liturgy for the Third Sunday of Advent, Year A (Matthew)
Texts: Isaiah 35:1–10; Psalm 146:5–10 or Luke 1:46b–55; James 5:7–10; Matthew 11:2–11
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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 35:1–10 promises joy and restoration: the desert blooms, the weak are strengthened, and the ransomed return with singing.
Psalm 146 praises God who lifts up the lowly and brings justice to the oppressed, while Luke 1:46b–55—the Magnificat—rejoices in the God who scatters the proud and fills the hungry with good things.
James 5:7–10 calls for patience as we wait for the Lord, like a farmer awaiting rain, reminding us that steadfastness is the soil where joy grows.
Matthew 11:2–11 tells of John the Baptist in prison, questioning Jesus’ identity. Jesus answers not with arguments but with evidence: the blind see, the lame walk, the poor receive good news.
Together, these readings center on joy—not shallow cheerfulness, but deep assurance that God is near, working renewal in unexpected ways.
Call to Worship
One: The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad!
All: The desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus!
One: Strengthen the weak hands, make firm the feeble knees!
All: Say to those who are fearful of heart, “Be strong, do not fear—your God is here!”
One: Come, let us rejoice in the Lord our Savior.
All: With joy and thanksgiving, we worship the God who brings life from barren places.
See also: Advent Liturgy Hub, 22 Biblical Calls to Worship, and 28 Modern (and Biblical) Calls to Worship.
Opening Prayer
God of joy, you bring life to the wilderness and hope to the weary. As we draw near to the celebration of Christ’s birth, open our hearts to your presence. Let joy blossom in our waiting, and peace take root in our hearts. May your Spirit renew us in faith and love, that we may bear witness to the good news of Jesus Christ, the One who makes all things new. Amen.
Call to Confession
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Let us bring our confessions to God, trusting in divine mercy.
Prayer of Confession
God of grace and goodness, we confess that we lose heart too easily. We grow impatient in our waiting and discouraged in our faith. We doubt your promises and overlook your presence in our midst. Forgive us, Lord. Renew our joy and restore our hope. Make our hearts ready to receive your coming with gladness and gratitude, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
Hear the good news: “The Lord, your God, is in your midst... he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love.” In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and made whole. Thanks be to God! (Zephaniah 3:17)
See also: Advent Liturgy Hub and Assurance of Pardon: Meaning, Scripture.
Prayer for Illumination
God of joy and promise, your Word renews the weary and strengthens the faint. As we listen today, fill us with your Spirit and make our hearts bloom with hope. Prepare us to welcome your Son with faith and joy. Amen.
See also: Advent Liturgy Hub and 24 Prayers of Illumination.
Benediction Prayer
Go forth in joy and peace.
Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, rejoice!
And may the blessing of God—
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—
be with you and renew your strength in every season. Amen.
See also: Advent Liturgy Hub, 22 Benedictions and Blessings in the Bible, and Biblical Blessings: Meaning, Examples, and Relevance Today.
