Our Christmas trees are beautifully lit. Our presents are perfectly wrapped. Our holiday music is happily played. But with all of this joy, we oftentimes become overwhelmed by the chaos, our minds become clouded and we oftentimes lose focus, causing us to become unaware of what the holiday season truly encompasses. This December I wanted to challenge myself to think much deeper into what the holiday season means to everyone. Being the season of giving, I realized it is the perfect time to give a gift to those who need it the most, a gift that is greater than any found topped with a bow or hidden under the tree, a gift that is incomparable to any others received, a gift deep from within our hearts, a gift of prayer.
A prayer for those who sacrifice for me.
For some it may be our parents, our grandparents, our friends, our siblings, or all of the above. Whatever the case may be, we all undeniably desire to give to those who continuously give so much to us. Because it oftentimes feels as if we are unable, I pray that through God's strength, He is able to reveal to them our love and our gratefulness. I pray this Christmas that those who sacrifice for me finally receive the happiness and joy that they so often give.
A prayer for my enemies.
Although it is never easy, we all face challenges in our lives that oftentimes lead to burnt bridges or broken friendships. This Christmas I pray for the strength to be able to forgive, forget, and show love towards those who I other times tend to turn my back towards.`
A prayer for those who are sick.
For those who are sick this holiday season, I pray in their ability to find the strength to not be anxious, but to remind themselves that our security rests in our God alone- He is trustworthy and He is much nearer than we think.
// May the joy of the Lord be your strength - Nehemiah 8:10 //
A prayer for those who have lost a loved one.
For some, Christmas is no longer the most wonderful time of the year due to heavy hearts that ache for lost loved ones. I pray that this Christmas, these families will celebrate the time they were once able to spend with their loved ones. I pray that they do not sit in sadness, but instead rejoice in the peace of knowing just how wonderful God's plan is and just how special it is to be a part of it.
// He will be our peace - Micah 5:5 //
A prayer giving thanks.
This Christmas, I pray an ultimate prayer of thanks for the ultimate gift received. It is through Christ we are able to enjoy each day. It is through Him we have been blessed with a loving family who we are able to share this holiday with. It is all through Him, and for that we should all be forever grateful.
