Lord, in a season when every heart should be happy and light, many of us are struggling with the heaviness of life—burdens that steal the joy right out of our Christmas stockings.

Not just Covid -19 or the Brexit issues, but sometimes other disasters strike in unsuspecting areas, ravaging peaceful homes and interrupting our lives and of those around us.

We need your peace, Jesus.

In our world where often worry, not peace, prevails, stir up that good news again. This Christmas, make it real in our hearts. Never have we needed your joy and peace more than now.

Thank You for the gift of Jesus your Son, the Word made flesh.

Forgive us for sometimes forgetting—that your love never changes, never fades, and that You never abandon the purpose for which You came: to save us from our sin, and to give us life eternal, the joy of relationship with a holy God.

Your birth—and ultimately your death—sealed your promise to us forever. 

Thank you for being Immanuel, “God with us.” Open our eyes to realise this each day as we interact with others.

Help us to be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as you forgave us. Show us creative ways to love and care for those outside our home. Fill us to overflowing with your love for the lost. Teach us to continue to do acts of kindness to those who are in need at this time of year.

May our family be a refreshment and light to others. We ask you to touch with salvation those in our family who do not know you [Name those individuals]. Open their hearts to your great love for them. Help us to share Your Truth and be your light. You are the Saviour of the world.

Lord, don't let us miss you this Christmas season. May we simplify our activities and traditions so we can focus our celebration on your birth.

Thank you for being the Prince of Peace, and I ask you for that supernatural peace to reign in our hearts. Thank You for the simple but life-changing message of your love for us. 

The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace."

Amen