Hello Friend. Awakening of the Heart Advent Retreat. Our theme on day five is praying for softened hearts, with a reward of connection and empathy with others. 

Let us pray, Gracious Savior and Lord, we come before you with a heartfelt desire for open hearts. 

Your promise in Ezekiel 36:26 inspires us, reminding us that you can replace our hearts of stone with hearts of flesh, filled with compassion and understanding. 

We ask that you soften our hearts and those around us, breaking down the walls that hinder deep connection. 

Help us to embrace vulnerability, allowing us to engage with one another authentically. 

Teach us to listen with empathy, to seek acceptance and understanding before judgment, and to love unconditionally. 

For in this season of hope, we long to reflect your love in our relationships. 

Jesus, help us so we may be instruments of your healing peace, spreading kindness and compassion wherever we go. 

Guide us to recognize the pain and struggles of others and inspire us to respond with grace and support. 

Lord, let our hearts be open to reconciliation and healing, both within ourselves and in our communities. 

May each encounter be an opportunity to express your love and kindness, fostering deeper connections and enriching the lives of those around us. 

Fill us with your Spirit, igniting a passion to love and serve one another, so that they may sense and feel the love of God through us. 

Amen.