A Christmas Letter

Dearest Heavenly Father As I reflect on the past year and all the blessings I’ve gained, I pray for those less fortunate–the poor, hungry, sick, and afflicted; and the many who have no home. I compassionately pray You ease their suffering and burden. I pray that You recognize the battles being borne, and send each soldier to his home, knowing their families pray for their safety every day, as do I, and suffer them in their hearts. I know soldiers ferry a terrifying life of fear. For the many who have sacrificed their days with loved ones for the battlefield and lost, I pray You take them in Your care and lovingly give them a peaceful place with You in Heaven. Those bold and courageous enough to fight for their beliefs deserve a fair and favorable judgement. This season is not only about Your giving, but also about our receiving–receiving the blessings You bestow. The gifts we give can never compare to that which You gave to us with Christ’s life. I pray that our gifts reflect love, kindness, understanding, hope, compassion, and joy–the blessed things we received when Christ was born. For children who count presents, not blessings, I pray their parents revise their lessons. I pray we learn from Your gift; praise Your love, wisdom, and grace. We are born anew each time we pass Your blessings on to others and I pray that we celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and how Your gift has affected our lives and spirits. I pray especially at this time of year that You are remembered and that the birth of Christ is the center of celebrations. Please, God, I pray for my parents, grandparents, and brother without whom I would not know You. I pray for others around me–for their servitude with You and ask that You favor me with knowing they are safe and in Your peaceful arms. I pray for forgiveness in disobedience and indiscretions that have troubled me in the past year. I humbly thank You for your Precious Gift and for sharing all the blessings of this, and all, seasons of the year. Until we meet, may I find peace in Your Goodness, hope in Your Love, wisdom in Your Word, and joy in Your Son.