A Prayer for Christmas Day

Lord God, born in a stable and laid in bethlehem’s manger, we remember this morning
        the surprise of the shepherds,
            the worship of the wise men and
                the wonder of mary and joseph.

We ask

            that in the midst of all that is familiar you will startle us with your strange presence.
        that in the midst of all that clamours for our attention you will stir our hearts with gladness
    that in the midst of the staleness of repetition you will give us the grace to marvel again at your love.

But because we know that even in these high holy days there will be moments when the holly prick of loneliness and absence stings us out of our complacency, we ask that you will make us aware of those less fortunate than us.

Of those

    who lack the comfort of loving arms,
        or the sheltering roof of a warm home
            or the security of a stable land.

And finally, when the celebration is over, and the joyful notes of the last crisp carol have died away and life has returned to the steady order of January, we pray that you in your infant newness will delight us with your presence

Amen