Prayer Column - December 2019

December! Christmas!

But what can be said about Christmas that has not been said 2,000 times before? It’s the time we celebrate the birth of Jesus – the impossible conception, the miracle of miracles that changed the world for ever.

But then, perhaps the old things need saying again (and again, and again), for memories need jogging, minds refocusing, hearts rekindling. God is working his purpose out as year succeeds to year, but it often doesn’t feel like that. The good news stales, and the much vaunted joy pales. So we need reminding.

Jesus came and was cradled, but he did not stay there. He grew up, and spoke truth and hope, and lovingly mended broken lives. He showed what God was really like: a Heavenly Father. Then he did the impossible once more: he died and was raised to new life. And from there God’s great rescue goes on – through Christian believers of any kind, to reach and restore this whole world he created in the beginning.

The Christmas tree grows to maturity.
The tinsel and the bells neither fade nor fall silent.
Gifts enrich lives all round and for ever.
Food and festivities never jade nor waste.
Lights signify his Way in our dark, to the Father God himself.

And we can legitimately ask for all of these blessings, for God has promised them. We can pray them into being, ever more with every year. Christmas!

Roy Lorrain-Smith

A prayer for each week

Heavenly Father, from whom Jesus came in human form through Mary by the Holy Spirit, we praise you for being the God of the impossible, and also caring. Amen.

Teacher God, knowing how your pupils need repetition to grasp the truth about you and Jesus and the Spirit – and your plan for us all – please help us learn. Amen.

Lord Jesus, rightful King over all, thank you for making us your courtiers, sharing your work and representing you to others. Please make us worthy. Amen.

Everlasting God, endlessly inventive and without limits in what good things may arise from what you start, please help us join in what you are doing here. Amen.

Your own prayers

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