Let us pray,
God, our hope and peace,
We pray that as we move ever closer to the celebration of the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ, that we take the time to focus on the true joy of the season. That we put aside the glittering lights, wrapped presents, crowded schedules and pressures that the world has made it about … and we focus on the good news that Jesus’ birth has the power to bring us true, great, redeeming joy this Christmas season and always.
Give us the same love for one another as Mary and Joseph felt holding their new baby. Give us the unwavering belief shown by the shepherds and wise men as they made their way through danger and darkness to experience the great gladness of worshiping their new born king. Give us the same voice to proclaim the birth of our Savior as the angels did.
We pray that you help us to see that true joy comes from knowing you, from recognizing Jesus as our Savior and Lord. You give us the reason to celebrate … the birth of this tiny child who would dwell among us, overcome death and rise again to forgive our sin and give us eternal life.
Rejoice the king is coming … rejoice true joy is ours.
And, all God’s children say,
AMEN