Lord, we lift up your precious Son Jesus today, and ask that you keep us mindful that he alone is the real reason we celebrate this season.
In the face of joy, help us to point to the ultimate joy, Jesus died for our sins, to reconcile us to you.
In the face of loneliness, help us point to Jesus intimately as the one who cares for the hurting and lonely with the tenderest care.
In the face of discord, which we know happens at this season in families, we pray, point every heart to Jesus, that as each member draws near to him in his saving power they draw closer to each other, forgive as he forgave even as he was scorned on that cross.
Lord, make us vessels of grace and hope this Christmas season we pray.