This Advent, Lord, come to the manger of my heart. Fill me with Your presence from the very start. As I prepare for the holidays and gifts to be given, remind me of the gift You gave when You sent Your Son from Heaven. The first Christmas gift, it was the greatest gift ever. You came as a baby born in a manger. Wrapped like the gifts I find under my tree, Waiting to be opened, to reveal Your love to me. Restore to me the wonder that came with Jesus’ birth, when He left the riches of Heaven and wrapped Himself in the rags of earth. Immanuel, God with us, Your presence came that night. And angels announced, “Into your darkness, God brings His Light.” “Do not be afraid,” they said, to shepherds in the field. Speak to my heart today, Lord, and help me to yield. Make me like those shepherd boys, obedient to Your call. Setting distractions and worries aside, to You I surrender them all. Surround me with Your presence, Lord, I long to hear Your voice. Clear my mind of countless concerns and all the holiday noise. Slow me down this Christmas, let me not be in a rush. In the midst of events and planning, I want to feel Your hush. This Christmas, Jesus, come to the manger of my heart. Invade my soul like Bethlehem, bringing peace to every part. Dwell within and around me, as I unwrap Your presence each day. Keep me close to You, Lord. It’s in Your wonderful Name I pray. (Christianity.com)
God we also praise you in that you call us, you invite us to share in your work of restoration within our world. Give us wisdom to discern your leading, faith and courage to walk in obedience, and as we follow, fill us with your Hope.
O God, we pray for your presence, comfort, and hope in the lives of many in our community of faith as well as in our physical communities who today grieve loss, some through death, others thru loss of health and mobility, relationships etc. Holy Spirit invite all into a deeper relationship with the Father and as such enable them to experience healing and peace. We pray for families where there is discord and conflict. May you open their eyes and hearts to each other so that they too will hear your voice calling them to peace.
We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies including loved ones in long-term care. Support each family and grant deep measures of compassion and patience.
As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for healing, grace and protection over all.
We pray for our Households of Faith.
We pray all this in the Powerful Name of Jesus
Amen