Prayers for Christmas Eve
by Linda Kraft

Let us pray for the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, for all people
according to their needs.

Light of the Nations, you have increased the joy of this world with the gift
of your son.  For all the world he is the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  We pray that all nations will
recognize his authority and his reign will bring peace for all lands.  Use
us as your hands to bring justice and mercy to our families and friends and,
through them, to the world.  Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer. (Isaiah
9:2-7)

Great and glorious God, you ask us to worship you with our whole hearts.
Raise up for your Church, faithful preachers, teachers and volunteers who
will joyfully tell the world of your salvation in Jesus Christ.  Bring us
all to the day of judgment with hope in our hearts because of your loving
mercy.  Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.  (Psalm 96)

Mighty Redeemer, your bounty is never ending.  You call us to renounce our
greed and other impiety and passions and live according to your will.  As
you have been bountiful to us, grant us a giving spirit so that we want to
share with the world the goods and the spirit of joy that you have first
given us.  Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer. (Titus 2:11-14)

Giver of every good, you come to us at unexpected times and in places as you
did that first Christmas in Bethlehem.  With the shepherds we seek your
presence.  Be with these, your children who need your tender care....

Are there others we should include in our prayers?

Restore us with your glory, and help us to sing your glories as the angels
did that first Christmas.  Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer. (Luke
2:1-20)

Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your
mercy; through your son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(Comments to Linda at Linda_Kraft@Ecunet.org.)
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Trumbull, CT