“Grace upon grace.” John 1:16
Lord Jesus, I woke up today feeling the weight of friends’ stories and the wait of deep longings. I’ve never been more grateful for your promise and provision of “grace upon grace.”
Many of us are still holding out for the last scene in the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Resolution and redemption, a happy gathering and good ending would be “wonderful,” indeed. But whatever this Christmas season proves to be, you always prove yourself to be a most wonderful and merciful Savior.
We pray for friends facing their first Christmas having committed a loved one to eternity. Grant special grace for those families, still reeling with loss and grief. Hasten the Day of eternal delight, non-stop dancing, and no more goodbyes.
We also pray with a view to different relational scenarios. Old wounds get triggered. Brokenness gets neon-lighted. Messy relationships seem messier. Personal “views” declare war on each other. Loneliness feels it’s loneliest. No one understands these things better than you, Jesus.
The world into which you were born was filled with madness and sadness, self-interest and me-first-indulgence, power grabbing and responsibility shirking. You shy away from none of this stuff, Jesus. Hallelujah, and thank you.
Surprise us with your calming, healing, liberating presence. Sweeten the bitter waters of brokenness with the new wine of your kindness. Free each of us to offer your welcome, forgiveness, and kindness—no matter what we get in return.
Do more than we can ask or imagine, Jesus, because that’s what you love to do. Thank you. So very Amen we pray, in your tender and triumphant name.