copyright Bob Hostetler
Gracious God, Abba Father, to whom glory is sung in the highest and through whom peace is proclaimed to people on earth, thank you for another Christmas Eve.
As long ago you sent angels to preach the good news of Jesus' birth, you have today ordained pastors and priests, ministers and musicians to speak and sing and lead this night and tomorrow. Lord, give them grace and strength to serve their flocks well, and bless them even as many of them sacrifice their own enjoyment to facilitate the celebration of others. I pray this especially for my coworkers John and Kay, in Jesus' name.
Lord, thank You for the joys of family and friends this season, together with the abundance of your blessings. Open our hearts and homes to those in need of company and this weekend that we may be Your instruments of love and charity, in Jesus' name.
In your mercy remember the homeless, hungry, and oppressed, and give them hope, Lord God. Protect the newborns among us, especially Sawyer and Mackenzie. Preserve those who are sick, or recovering from surgery or sickness, especially Sonya and Leah. Grant peace and healing to those who will be spending this Christmas in the hospital, and blessing to those who will wait on them. Guide the journeys of those who travel. Comfort those who mourn. Create a new and contrite heart in the erring and faith in those who have not heard the good news, in Jesus' name.
And Lord God, make a manger in my heart this Christmas morn, and in the hearts of those I love, and come, Lord Jesus, to that rude habitation, as you came to Bethlehem long ago, amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment