# In You Is Our Salvation – Advent Prayer with Pope Francis
*2015-12-23*

> Bill Young leads a short Advent reflection on Isaiah 9:6, praying for the grace to recognize Christ’s salvation in our lives as Christmas approaches.

## Opening the Heart to God

Good afternoon. This is Bill Young, and welcome to Prayer in Lunch. Today is Wednesday of Christmas week. In a few days we will celebrate Christmas Day.

## Scripture Reading

Our reading comes from Isaiah 9:6: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

## Advent Prayer

Lord God, hasten our steps to Bethlehem so that we may encounter the child who is born for the salvation and joy of all people. Enlighten our hearts that we may recognize the infant Jesus born of the Virgin Mary as the salvation you give to each man and woman, and to all the peoples of the earth. Grant us the grace to live the joy of the Gospel in our families, at work, in our parish, and everywhere, especially in these final days of Advent.

*May we open our hearts to Christ’s presence this Advent, allowing His salvation to transform every part of our lives.*