Good morning God
As we head for and anticipate the Christmas Season, we are excited about the time we have with family and friends. For some it will be a very festive time and for some it is tough as they celebrate without a loved one. In the Christmas season, beyond the excitement of gatherings, parades, festivities and social times, we recognize that there is a part of the season that is mystical , enchanting and unpredictable. When we review the Birth of Jesus where the Christmas season began we recognize there was some enchanting and unforeseen events that happened there as well. Events like Mary being a virgin Mother, Jesus being born in a stable because there was no room in the Inn. How about Wise men and shepherds deviating from their duties and schedules to come and see this baby born in a manger. A bright star leading them directly to the manger. I am not sure even sure the best script writers could have put all this together. Perhaps this is where the “magic” of Christmas began. Maybe this is where the excitement and anticipation for the season began. Events like this in the Birth of Jesus truly were life changing for Mary and Joseph but I believe all this drama and the way things unfolded allow for us to truly enjoy the excitement, pageantry, unforeseen and magic of the season. It can be truly as magical time of the year. And it all began with a carpenter, a virgin mother and unfolded in the unlikeliest places …..a Stable. Thank you God for allowing this to happen this way. We are blessed.
God we pray for those in our church family and beyond that may be grieving during this festive time of the season. for those who are grieving God we ask that you hold them especially close during this time. Allow them to feel your grace and love and may they be able join some way celebrate the season as if their loved ones were still here. God hold them close.
For those experiencing health concerns Lord we ask that you be near them. It can be a trying time of the year if one is not feeling well. Give those who may be experiencing discomfort or pain some relief. Hold them close to you. And for those that have experienced healing and or relief from pain may they be grateful. We rejoice with them. We are thankful for the Doctors, nurses, specialist and health care practitioners that help us thru our tough times. Bless them for their support and care.
Even though we live in a country that sometimes has issues we must be thankful for a peaceful existence. We pray for our national leaders that run our country. It is not an easy task by any means. Help us to pray more than grumble about our politicians whether nationally, provincially or locally. Help us to be careful in our words. We lift up our politicians in prayer.
We pray for those of our numbers in long term care or extra care living . may they somehow be able to experience the festive time of the year as well. we thank you for those of our families who have gone on before. Be close to those in LTC.
We also pray for HOF at EMC this week
Lord help us in our busyness of the season to take time to really understand the reason for the season. The reason why we celebrate. We anticipate time with family and friends and that is good and expected. May we spend time in an and enjoy the magic of the season as we reflect on the birth of Jesus – the stable birth, the virgin Mary and the visit form shepherds and wisemen .
Thank You God for this time of year.
In your name we ask it
Amen