Eternal God,

you sent John the Baptist

to prepare the way for the coming of your Son.

Grant us the wisdom to hear your will,

that we too may prepare the way for Christ

who is coming in power and glory

to establish his kingdom of peace and justice;

through Jesus Christ our Judge and our Redeemer,

who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,

one God, forever.  Amen.  (from Book of Common Worship, WJK, 1993)