There’s an empty chair near the tree, Lord,
and an ache in our hearts,
and tears on our cheeks…
We’ll try to shield one another
from the loss and the grief we bear
but we know we can’t hide it from you…
We pray for
whose presence we miss so much
in these days meant for peace and for joy….
Open our hearts, our minds and our souls
to your healing, and the warmth and light
of your presence…
We pray and we trust that those we miss
are now in the place you prepared for them:
their home in your heart of hearts…
Gently open our hearts, Lord,
to memories of all the love we shared
with those who’ve gone before us…
Help us tell the stories that draw us back
Teach us to lean on you and each other
for the strength we need
to walk through this season a day at a time…
Be with us as, Lord, as we trim the tree
help us find and open the present you bring:
a gracious gift from the Prince of Peace…
Give us quiet moments with you, this week,
Be with us, Lord, and hold us as close
as you’re holding our loved ones,
Help us look to the day when we’ll meet again
when your mercy gathers us home to you
in the joy of the life you promise…
Christmas – a day that you’ve made, Lord –
a day of promise, of love and grace!
Help us find in this day and the year ahead
your blessing of peace and joy…
Amen.
