Christmas Time of Year

Lord, it is the time of year when much of the world celebrates your birth. Even nonbelievers sing the carols and read the wondrous stories. Teachers help their students make cards and gifts for their parents, and send letters off to servicemen abroad. It is a time of great caring, and our hearts soften toward others. But, Lord, it is also a great time sadness for many people. Memories of past hurts resurface. Loved ones are missing from the gathering for the first time. Oh, then, how do we rejoice? In obedience, in gratitude, we praise you for sending your son to us. All of the celebration is short lived. The suffering will pass. But your gift of grace includes us in your family, and that family celebration lasts forever. Your promises are a gift that is there for us every day. Your Word is true every day. You are sovereign and just every day. Your name is Holy, Lord, every day. Let the nonbelievers be touched by your spirit, and believe. Thank you, Lord.