With Jesus Comes “Grace upon Grace.” John 1:16
Lord Jesus, I woke up today feeling the weight of friends’ stories and the wait of deep longings. I’ve never been more grateful for your promise and provision of “grace upon grace.” In the past several weeks, I have 3 different friends with brain surgeries—not to mention other body parts under repair. And many of us are still holding out for the last scene in the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Resolution and redemption, a happy gathering and good ending would be “wonderful,” indeed. But whatever this Christmas season proves to be, you always prove yourself to be a most wonderful, merciful Savior.
We pray for friends facing their first Christmas with an empty chair and hole in their heart. Grant special grace for families still reeling with loss and grief. Hasten the Day of death’s termination and eternal celebration—no waiting rooms or recovery rooms, no more funerals parlors only resurrection parties.
We also pray in light of different relational scenarios each of us has. During the holidays old wounds get triggered and brokenness gets neon-lighted. Messy relationships seem messier and loneliness feels its loneliest. No one understands these things better than you, Jesus.
The world into which you were born was filled with constant craving and power grabbing, relational madness and deep sadness. Yet you don’t shy away from any of this stuff, Jesus. For you are Immanuel—God with us and for us.
Jesus, surprise us with your calming, healing, liberating presence in the coming days. Sweeten the bitter waters of brokenness with the new wine of your kindness. Free each of us to offer your welcome, forgiveness, and kindness—no matter what we get in return. Do more than we can ask or imagine, Jesus, because that’s what you love to do. Thank you and So Very Amen.