Merry Christmas!
If you’re like me, the pace and expectations of Christmas can be discouraging. I want so for it to be holy, sacred, soul-settling. Instead it’s often tedious, commercial, and soul-killing. I fight back against the tide of trivial getting and giving. But I’m weak. You? That’s when God reminds me his strength thunders in my weakness and I turn to pray. In hope of transforming Christmas into a season–or day at least–surrounded by, not just the spirit of Christmas as all the movies declare, but the very Spirit of God I’ve written this psalm to pray over the holiday. May God fill you with grace!
We love you, Lord.
We call on you, our true source of joy and strength,
Our provider and almighty God.
Other voices vie for our attention,
Christmas sights and sounds bewitch us.
Forgive our distraction.
In this still moment speak,
We turn our eyes and ears to you.
[Pause for a moment of silent, listening prayer]
God of all good gifts,
Lord of glorious lights,
Open yourself to those who don’t know
You are the Christmas God,
A Father who gives.
Light not just our Candles
But our lives and our world
With peace, joy, hope, and love.
Make Jesus shine from our hearts.
Provide for those who
Do not have enough
Who have no hope,
Who live in doorways, corners, and empty spaces.
[Pause for a moment of silent prayer for those in need]
Lord of all,
Change those of us who have homes and hope
Into people with open hands and hearts,
Givers, like you, of gifts and love.
Grant us each the faith
We require to receive
All you hold for us.
[Pause for a moment of silent prayer of thankfulness]
God of love,
Fill us with trust to give
Not only gifts wrapped with bows,
Toys, treasures, trinkets of the heart,
But our offerings of presence, touch, words,
A kind look in the eye.
And stretch us to be vessels of your
Justice, compassion, creativity, and vision
That we may participate with you
In transforming our hurting world
Into a kingdom that reflects you!
In the name of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
Amen
What a blessing!!!!
Thank you ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you, Elna. Merry Christmas. I hope 2022 is filled with God’s presence.
Thanks for this reminder. We so need to remember our Savior who gave all for us. Merry Christmas to you and Dd.
You’re welcome. I keep you in my prayers. Have a wonderful day.
yes! ~ “In the name of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Amen”
Have a holy, wonderful Christmas.
Merry Christmas 🎁🎄
May we all think of others before ourselves and listen for Gods will on what to do and how to move forward.
Love your muses and website Eugene.
Merry Christmas, David. Thank you for your kind comments. I hope 2022 is a wonderful year for you.
I am spending blessed holydays with family. Thankful for enough and extra to share. Thankful my granddaughter who has Covid after 2 rounds of vaccinations but is exhibiting mild symptoms. Praying everyone else remains negative especially Emma (granddaughter) who has been invited to participate in the national USA 18 Winter rugby camp. Praying for friends grieving loss in this time of rejoicing. Praising God!
Claire: I hope and pray it was a wonderful. It sounds as if beauty and difficulty are both present in your celebration and life. I pray for God’s protection and constant care.
Thank you, Eugene. I really enjoy your thoughts
& beautiful photography. It’s interesting &
fun to know you in this effective new ministry.
You’re welcome, Sandy. I am honored my writing speaks to you. I’ve kept you in my prayers and hope God is holding you in his firm loving grip.