Carols Prayer

By The Rev. Dr. Lucy Forster-Smith

Holy God, on this night of all nights we stand in awe of your abundant love for us. We are so grateful for the beauty that spills over us in this season. For the profuse darkness that exposes the canopy of the heavens; for the glistening dawn that breaks over the barrenness of the winter land; for the harbor of goodness that arrives when we least expect it, we give you the glory.

O Christ, you came into this world as a vulnerable child, showing us that the way to fullness is through taking humble frame. May we resemble your life, making the pathway toward peace and justice for the whole world. May the quickening light of your Presence shine in the dark and fearful places on this planet, in this country and within this city. Be a guide to all in this your world, who stumble with worldly cares and heavy burdens. Be hope for those who have no hope. Be a lamp to our feet and star that beacons us to our true home, which is you, O Jesus.

Holy Spirit of comfort and care, enliven us with hearts that beat with a passion for all who are lost, grieving, who are poor and helpless.  For those who are in prison, those who are refugees, those who are serving our country in the armed forces, ones who are in exiled places, bring comfort and peace. 

May the beauty of this night and the untold joy of this season shine through us in every life we touch.

These prayers and praises let us humbly offer up to the throne of heaven, in the words which Christ himself hath taught us:

Our Father which art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done in earth,
as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those
who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory,
forever and ever.

Amen.