December 2018

Gracious, loving God,

Every day, there is no question of your abounding love. It surrounds us in the beauty of the season, the sunrise, the dark night skies and the friends around us. Let your love overflow through all parts of our lives. We pray for healing for Lisa, Steve, Betty, Dick and Gary. And bless this offering today. I pray you put in our hearts a constant reminder of the grace you shower upon us; that we open our minds to ways we can help each other and the community. That we give and glorify You unceasingly this week. We pray this in your name,

Amen

Dear Jesus,Thank you for all your beauty. It really shines this time of year. Thank you for providing a free place to worship without fear. Thank you for an abundance that comes from your overflowing love.

There was a time when I relished the buildup toward Christmas. With all the holiday lights, Christmas songs. snowflakes. I looked forward to time with family. I still look forward to these things but it seems to come all in a rush. I have to shoehorn time with you. You are the greatest gift to us. A sign of great love. Help prepare our hearts for Christmas this season with your holy spirit. Let it wrap us like a blanket. Bring us closer together and more importantly bring us closer to your son. You are the grace and strength; the food that fuels our day. Lead all people together this season. As you taught, help us welcome the foreigners among us. You are the light of the world and can dispel all darkness. I ask us to take a moment now to center our hearts and minds on You, on your good news and on the teaching today.