A Christmas Prayer

Son of God, you broke the stillness of the night as angel voices proclaimed your birth piercing the world's darkness with the light of salvation: grant that we may joyfully receive you as our redeemer.

Lord Jesus, the Shepherds recognised God’s call through the angels, and went to the manger. Help us to recognise God’s messengers today and be obedient to his call to us. As the angles proclaimed your coming, may we also proclaim you – as our Lord, and proclaim you to the world, that all may know of your saving love.

Lord Jesus, we know that you are always with us. Sometimes we find it hard to recognise your presence. Help us to recognise you in the events of our daily lives. Be with those who, like wise men, search for you and bless those who show others the Way. O come to us, abide with us, our Lord, Immanuel.

Lord Jesus, you did leave your throne and your Kingly crown when you came to earth. But in Bethlehem’s home there was found no room. We remember, too, that after you were born you fled to Egypt as a refugee. We pray for those who are homeless, hungry or cold for those who live on the streets, in hostels or in shanty towns. Bring comfort and safety to those who have fled to strange lands to avoid persecution, violence and death, and those excluded because of the race, colour, gender or disability. Be with all who are apart from loved ones at this time, whether separated by distance, divorce, dispute or death; may they feel your presence and comfort.

Help us to make room for you in our homes and in our hearts and demonstrate our love for you by making room for the poor and needy in our world. It is obvious that we have so much. As we eat our fill and open our presents may we never forget those who have little.

Lord Jesus, Prince of Peace, the angels proclaimed your birth singing, “Peace on earth goodwill to all.” Yet man at war with man hears not the love-song which they bring. We pray for those who live in fear of violence, in war torn locations, and those in dispute with their neighbour. Give to the earth the peace that we long for. We pray, O hush the noise, you men of strife and hear the angels sing.

Lord Jesus, the people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. Be with those who are tormented by sickness of mind or body, …. those held captive by addiction, or in prison. Bring light to a dark world. We pray that you will come, the broken heart to bind, the bleeding soul to cure, and release the prisoners in Satan’s bondage held.

Lord Jesus, we remember before you all those who have died in faith and ask your comfort for those who grieve, spending Christmas without loved ones. We praise you that you were born, that man no more may die.

Lord Jesus, as we celebrate your birth; be born in our hearts that we may be born again. AMEN