A Prayer for the Coming Christmas

Dear Lord Jesus,

I turned over the calendar and it was official: countdown to Christmas. Before me whirled visions of shopping for the perfect gift at just the right price, addressing and sending out Christmas cards, shopping, decorating the house, rushing to programs and parties, shopping, baking and cooking special treats and, of course, shopping. Lord, give me the strength to keep up with all my blessings! But more than that: make this year different.

Down to the last detail, your entrance into the world was part of the eternal plan. Yet, there were no festive parties, no extravagant decorations. You came, simply and quietly, into the humblest of circumstances away, even, from the welcoming smiles of family and friends. The night was soft and dark and the beauty that infused that scene was of heavenly origin. A company of strangers--who came out of both curiosity and awe-- was the only notice that the world took on that night.

Lord, as I prepare for another holiday season, teach me from Your model and not the world’s. Help me remember that this holy time is not about gifts, family, friends or even religious observances. It is about You. It is Your birth day we are celebrating. Every day before I plan or cook or shop, may I sit with You and lavishly spend my moments and hours with You. Let me sit at Your feet, learn from You, make You the first priority. During this season may my heart be quieted and my soul made simple, not because my planning has enabled me to manage my activities, but because I have put You before my activities.

And into the quiet place prepared for You by faith, may there come a supernatural peace and a glorious visitation, as breath-taking as Christmas angels to bless this holy season.  Amen.

Nancy Shirah