The traditional collect or prayer of the day for Advent 3, modernized from the Common Service Book, says:
Lord, we beseech You, give ear to our prayers, and lighten the darkness of our hearts, by Your gracious visitation; Who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, ever One God, world without end. AMEN.
The First or Old Testament reading from Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11. This is a familiar Messianic prophecy which proclaims both judgment and good tidings.
Psalm 126 contrasts the sorrow of exile and captivity with the joy of return and restoration. Everything should lead God's people to praise Him.
The Second reading or Epistle from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 It contains a closing series of brief exhortations from the Apostle Paul. In particular for this season, it refers to remaining faithful until the coming of Christ.
The Gospel from John 1:6-8, 19-28 is one of the accounts of the ministry and purpose of John the Baptist. John is a witness to the one who will come after him. His role is to prepare the way for the Lord, to point to the true Light. During Advent, may we also bear witness to the Light in a sin-darkened world as we prepare ourselves and others for the coming of Christ.
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