Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19

Isaiah 11:1-10

Romans 15:4-13

Matthew 3:1-12

Merciful God, who sent your messengers the prophets to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins, that we may greet with joy the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.