By Patrick Neitzey

God of darkness and God of light.  At the beginning of time you breathed out stars into the heavens, and with the hand of a master artist you made sure each one was in its right place.  

When we are lost, oh Lord, we ask that you would hang a star in the sky to point us towards a deeper relationship with you.

We pray, oh God, that during this season of abundance, joy, and cheer we would not lose sight of the gift of grace and love that you offered to all people, without exception.  

We ask, oh Lord, that you would reveal all the ways you have blessed us this season. Give us new eyes to see your love in our midst in the faces and actions of all those we meet.

On days when it feels like we have been walking aimlessly through life, reorient our focus.

Help us to see your love shining bright, decorating the darkness in our lives.

We pray for those who are sick, addicted, abused, and suffering, that they may know your love and feel the blessings of this season poured out for them.

God, send down your Holy Spirit to prepare us for the arrival of Your great love in our very midst. Equip us to be your hands and feet in this world constantly working for goodness, mercy, and love.
In the hustle and bustle of the season help us to slow down and give thanks. And When our words fail, oh Lord, we ask that you would give us the courage to boldly proclaim “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth, peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Emmanuel, God with us, we give thanks for your life, for the example of pure grace and love poured out for all, to bear witness to the handiwork of a God who’s love knows no bounds.

The stars are shining—keep your eyes peeled—God punctuated the heavens with beautiful stars and under one lies the salvation of the world.