Heavenly Father,
In this Christmas season, we anxiously wait for good, despite deserving Your indictment against us. On our own, our wounds are incurable. We’ve been haughty, relying on the works and power of our own hands, in the money we earn, and the idols we bow to. Convict us, Father, that we may guard our deceitful mouths, and refrain from hating good and doing evil well. Help us to remember all You’ve done for us, from rescuing us out of Egypt, to casting our sins into the depths of the sea. We praise You for not retaining Your anger forever, but rather lavishing on us steadfast love and compassion.
May our response be to walk on Your path, undistracted by our former strongholds, fortune tellers, and carved images. With You as our peace, we can lay down our weapons and rest in You, dwelling securely and unafraid. Help us to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with You. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, with Your power and might. Although we do not know Your thoughts, nor understand all Your plans, we trust in You and will obey You as our Shepherd. When we fall, we shall rise, and when we are in darkness, You shall be our light.
Thank You for delivering and redeeming us, for rescuing the remnant and for using what is little to show us marvelous things. Because of that, we have a Bethlehem-born Ruler that defeated death and the grave. As we walk in Your name, we await You, look to You, and know that You hear us. Teach us Your ways and righteous acts, that we may witness Your faithfulness forever more. We praise You for Your strength and majesty—there is none like You!
Amen
