Isaiah 11:1-10; Psalm 72: 1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17; Romans 15: 4-9; Mt 3:1-12

God,
source of all patience
and encouragement,
you set your root
into our lives—
branching out
a Spirit of wisdom
and understanding,
counsel
and strength.

Peace
flourishes
in your tree of life,
rising from
the holy mountain
where justice grows
and all the earth
is filled
with your knowing.

As the One
leads us—
through a baptism
of fire,
through the clearing
of what is false—
into your heights,
one heart,
one voice,
where there shall be
no harm or ruin,
for all
that cannot bear
your truth
will fall away.

Will you follow the Child to God’s holy mountain?
Will you bear the fruit born of the Spirit?