God,
Yes, the holiday season is upon us. I pray that I experience it to be what the word indicates – a holy day season. Tune my heart and mind, ears and eyes to all things holy. Blur the lines for me between sacred and secular so that each moment speaks to me of your goodness, of your greatness, of your love. I pray that each bite of turkey and dressing will be a manifestation of your provision, that I might “taste and see that the Lord is good.” (Psalm 34:8) I pray that in each celebration, I will experience the joy of community, that I will remember “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down upon the collar of his robes.” (Psalm 133:1-2)
I pray that with each carol sung, I will know that I join with not only my sisters and brothers, but with the moon, stars and the angels and those who have gone before me into the church triumphant, all with one voice proclaiming “Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth, peace among those whom he favors.” (Luke 2:14)
I pray that with each Christmas card opened, I will remember that Jesus said, “I have called you friends” (John 15:15) and told us we are to love one another as he as loved us… as friends. I pray that each gift received or offered would be a reminder of the “surpassing grace” you have given us in the child of Christmas, that I might be able to say to God, “thanks be to God for his indescribable gift.” (2 Corinthians 9:14,15)
God, transform every worldly moment into an experience of your presence so that this truly will be a holy-day season. Amen