¹In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, ²the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters. ³Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. ⁴And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. ⁵God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.

• Light a candle to remember Christ’s presence with you.
• Sit five to fifteen minutes in silent meditation paying attention to the deep breath.
• The morning brings a new beginning as God continues to create.
• Feel God’s breath at work.  (You might want to sit by the window or move outside)
• Hear the words, “Let there be light.”
• Notice the light around you.  Is is silent or noisy?  Is it still or dancing?
• What new creation do you see with the light?
• Notice the darkness around you.  Is is silent or noisy?  Is it still or moving?
• Invite the light into the darkness.  What do you see?
• What senses are awakening in you at the promise of new creation?
• Follow the light today and be open to the new thing God is creating.
• Give thanks to God for this time in prayer and for any new insights you have received.
• Share as you feel led in the reply box below?

Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, January 8, 2012, the Baptism of the Lord  Year B 
Genesis 1:1-5
Psalm 29:1-11
Acts 19:1-7
Mark 1:4-11

If you use these prayers in other groups, please give credit to author.
Permission to use in not-for-profit settings The Rev. Lil Smith, M.Div., DASD