A daily prayer during this COVID-19 crisis for December 29, 2020

​Dec. 29, 2020
A daily prayer during this COVID-19 crisis

During these difficult days, Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar and the members of the Extended Cabinet are sharing a daily prayer based on the Revised Common Lectionary for the week.
You are welcome to use these in worship or in your own devotions.

Today’s prayer

God of glory, 
We bless your holy name that is worthy to be praised,
The God of Ebenezer, who has carried us through thus far,
The God of Emmanuel, who is with us now and always,
The Light of life, you who were made flesh in Jesus Christ, have filled us with the light of your Word.
 
Most of us have missed a “traditional” Christmas Eve service where we pass the candlelight to each other and sing “Silent Night” holding up our candles with the heartfelt prayer that we may become bearers of light to this world.
 
O Lord, we pray we won’t miss the true meaning of Christmas, which is worth more than our rituals or traditions. May we celebrate in remembrance of your coming in Jesus Christ to dwell within us. Forgive our  stubbornness when we resist your entering into our hearts, and for having little trust in you when our world seems dark. Help we who are living in despair to discover the light emanating even in the darkest times of our lives. Open our eyes to see the Light of Christ surrounding us. We believe that Christ’s light, which overcame the darkness, will also dispel the darkness in us and around the world, bringing joy to the world and peace on earth evermore.
 
From your fullness, may we receive your grace upon grace and allow your light to dwell in us to the fullnest. May your brightness shine through us and onto our families, neighbors, communities, and to the ends of the earth. May the Word continue to inspire our minds and transform our lives as we pass on your light, so that others may know the power of your redeeming grace and love. Glory to God! Amen.


“It only takes a spark to get a fire going; And soon all those around can warm up in its glowing
That's how it is with God’s Love; Once you've experienced it
You spread the love to everyone; You want to pass it on” (UMH # 572)
   
Rev. Taesung Kang, Granite District Superintendent
Based on John 1:1-18