Remember the Reason

"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to all whom God favors." Luke 2:14

Father, it's so easy to get caught up in the list making, the shopping, the wrapping, even the decorating. So much so, we begin to lose sight of why we even celebrate Christmas.

How have we fallen so far away from you?

How have we gone from what is all about You, to being all about ourselves, our wants?

Slipping You in doesn't suffice.

For some, this time of year brings a mixture of joy and deep sadness. It's a reminder of the emptiness they feel for their loved ones.

Yet in the midst of their sorrow, may they lift their eyes to You and realize that You fill the void, You heal their brokenness, You restore their joy.

Remind us of the price You paid. Remind us of the reason You came.

Jesus draw us back to You, now and forever.

Fill us with hunger pains that only subside when we feed on Your very Word.

Father it seems we have made this Season about the worldliness, the getting rather than the giving. Oh yes Lord, their are many who give of themselves for Your sake. Bless them with spiritual blessings.

Ignite a fire within the Body of Christ that cries out Your holiness to the nations. Ignite a burning passion within the Body of Christ that brings unity, boldness, and proclamation of Your first coming and second coming!

May we not gather around the tree to open the presents of materialism. May we gather around the tree on our knees to open the present of life-Your life.

 Jesus slow us down to savor this time, this occasion. May all our preparing be for You. May our focus be on doing for the least of these rather than for the selfishness of our flesh.

Show us how to honor You in a way that brings millions to the Cross.