Prayer

God-with-us,

We commemorate your birthday tonight! With joy and gladness, we welcome your light and celebrate the good news you have brought to a world in need. Help us do the same! Not just today and not just within our own circles of friends and family, but every day and with all people. May we embrace the spirit of Christmas by cherishing peace and goodwill, expressing your mercy to others and living as a people of hope. And so we invite you: be born in us now and henceforth, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

God with us,

Make us more alert to your presence around us today, especially in places we would otherwise least expect to find you. Fill us with anticipation to find you incognito. In the eyes of those we serve, in the bodies of the sick, or in the voices of those who call us for help. May we embrace them just as they are, thankful that you have already done the same to us, and remembering that in serving them, we serve you. Amen.

Prayer

Word of life,

Our workspaces become toxic when words are used to attack and point out the weaknesses of others. Lead us to shun such habits and to speak words instead that are sweet to the ear and that uplift the soul. Inspire us always to look for the good in others so that we might call out that goodness in clear, strong voices. Yes, wherever we serve, let people know that a spirit of harmony prevails over those voices that seek to divide and put down. Amen.

Prayer

God of peace,

We are not designed to work as machines, endlessly spinning the gears. We must rest. For those who struggle to hear you calling them to rest from their labor, remind them that taking time for relax and recuperate is part of our following you. Your mission includes the calling for us to step away for a while and restore our spirits. When we see colleagues today, struggling to step back and breathe, inspire us to bring good help to them by insisting they take a much-needed break. Amen.

Prayer

God our provider,

Our mission impels us to serve those who are most vulnerable, while at the same time advocating for a more just and equitable society overall. Lead us further in this work so that everyone’s needs might be secured. In our personal lives, too, help us to practice resourcefulness with all we’ve been given, and to consider how else we can share with those who are lacking. Help us avoid the temptation to store up for ourselves more than we need, and to be ready instead to give as you give—abundantly and joyfully! Amen.

Prayer

Almighty G-d,

As our Jewish brothers and sisters enter their season of Hanukkah, we give thanks for the light you have shone in our hearts. In this season of joyful celebration, may we all have a deeper sense of gratitude for your constant presence before us, and for the gift of your abundant provision. You make a way where there seems to be no way, and we are glad. Baruch atah, Adonai!

Prayer

Gracious God,

In this season of advent, teach us to wait better, in hope and expectation, for the gifts you are bringing into our present. Expand our hearts’ horizons so we can be amazed by life’s newness. May we be ready to meet you as you come to us, and may we be faithful to prepare your way in our lives and in our mission together. As we continue extending your compassionate ministry to others, we pray. Amen.