The Thrill of Hope By Vickie Stam

The Christmas season is marked with so many family traditions, some universal and some that have been individually created and cherished throughout the years.

For some of us, it is all about the birth of Jesus and for some there is not even the slightest hint of this miraculous gift. 

Traditions, can come and go. Some disappear in an instant while others seem to fade over time. Either way, they always end up taking a little part of you with them. At times, all that you are left with are the sad reminders of what used to be and now you just long to get through the holiday season. 

But maybe, you're like others whose Christmas is filled with a mixture of both joy and sadness but your faith in Jesus gives you hope. You trust that the things that have robbed you of your joy can and will be made new once again.

Psalm 139:16 "You saw me before I was born. Everyday of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed."    

So, wherever you are and whatever you're doing this Christmas season, I offer you my prayer 

Dear Heavenly Father,

I invite the world to bask in the glory of the birth of your Son, Jesus Christ, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace

I pray that we would find joy in the fullness of your love, grace, peace, compassion and comfort

Help us to be mindful of the true meaning of Christmas

and not just the ones we created for ourselves

Fill our hearts with your word

Make us a friend to those who are feeling lost and alone

Give us loving arms to embrace with

And ears to hear their cries

Or give us the courage we need to reach out for help when we ourselves are in need 

Let us remember those who have lost loved ones not only through death but through brokenness as well 

Provide us the words you would have us say, all the while allowing your comfort to wash over them

Guide our paths in the direction you would have us go
And wrap your hedge of protection around us

Forgive us when we fall short 

And remind us to always forgive others
Restore our health, spiritually, physically and emotionally
And when we can't find our way through the chaos of life
May you shine your light so that we would find you first
Help us to trust that you will provide everything we need
And in all of this, I thank you Lord for sending your Son to walk before us and with us

For allowing Him to die in our place - for our sins

So that we would not perish - but have everlasting life
May you always be the center of our lives  

Amen

It is my prayer that you will find,

 "The thrill of hope!"  this Christmas and forever more.