24/12/2021
A Christmas prayer.
Gracious Father, on this Christmas Eve, we are trying to accomplish much, last minute shopping, standing in queues, preparing food, delivering parcels, travelling home for Christmas.
We are often stressed, worried about loved ones, isolating with the virus, trying to keep the peace, and it us too easy to become frazzled and grumpy.
In the midst of it all, may we remember the first Christmas, Elizabeth and Zechariah with their baby John, knowing that he was to be a prophet for the most High. Mary and Joseph, their plans to stay in Nazareth disrupted because of a government survey, finding themselves on a long journey by foot to Bethlehem. Mary tired and uncomfortable- the time for her baby entering the world all too near, Joseph bewildered and wanting to find a safe place for them to rest. In that first Christmas, there were challenges, and unexpected difficulties.
In the most unlikely of places, in the smallest of towns, the Saviour of the world was born. The angels sang 'glory to God' and the shepherds marvelled and fell in love with the baby. It wasn't just that all was well, but that God's plan was unfolding, and the Messiah had finally come. A sacred moment, a turning point for the history of the world.
Eternal Father, may the Christmas story bring us love, comfort, hope and peace. May we know that God so loves us, that He sent His son to give His life for us. May we find comfort in our darkest days when everything seems to be going wrong, that something good can come from it. May we find hope, to see things in perspective, and to let go of trivial annoyances. And as we trust God more, and find forgiveness for our shortcomings, and the possibility of new beginnings, may we find peace.
Holy spirit, may you touch our lives anew with the wonder of Christmas. In our sadness, may we know the presence of our Emmanuel, the One who cares so much for us, and reminds us that we are never alone. When we are surrounded by people, let us give thanks, and cherish them. In all circumstances may we give thanks, and be able to sing with sincerity ' Joy to the world- the Lord has come'. Indeed, we pray this prayer for all the world.
Wishing you all a peaceful Christmas, love and prayers,
Fiona