THE PRAYERS, Christmas Eve, Cycle A
December 24, 2023: Christmas Eve, the Nativity of Our Lord
Isaiah 9:2-7 (For Unto us a child is born)
Psalm 96 (Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name)
Titus 2:11-14 (God’s salvation has appeared in Jesus, training us to live godly lives)
Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) (The story of Jesus’ birth)
Let us pray that Jesus brings light, salvation, and peace to the church, the world, and all people.
A brief silence
Lord Jesus Christ, we come to your cradle with joy and wonder! We adore you for your loving-kindness. We thank you for making yourself small and meek, that we might approach you gladly and without fear. Thank you, dear Jesus; accept our hearts as our best and loving gift.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Make the Church your holy manger. Bless it with your dear presence, your great goodness, and your holy love. Like herald angels, let it always announce your mercy and favor to any who will receive you into their hearts and lives.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Make this congregation into a welcoming Bethlehem stable. Give us joyful souls, eager to adore and proclaim your precious Name. Give us generous hearts, so that we see and welcome you in the unexpected people touching our lives. Give us tireless hands and feet, so we may hurry to share your great love with those who need it most.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
O Prince of Peace, protect and bless your persecuted servants, especially during this season of light. Turn their suffering for the sake of your Name into great joy. Transform their tormentors into confessors of your undeserved mercy.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Little Lord Jesus, bless all the dear children who most need your tender care. Kindle faith in their hearts, and keep them safe from every danger. Give childlike faith to everyone who doubts your existence or despairs of your forgiveness, and give them peace.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Born a Child, you are the King of all nations, and their Lord. Conform the rulers of this world to your glorious and gentle rule. Teach them to do your will; to love justice and mercy; to walk humbly with you; and to be a blessing to the people entrusted to their care.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Angels sang of peace and good will at your birth. In this sinful world, violence troubles your people even on this holy night. Let your holy angels protect and direct those in the military; all first responders; and anyone whose work is difficult and dangerous, this night and always. Bring justice and mercy to places of discord and chaos, and bestow your peace upon us all.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
O Sun of Righteousness, arise with healing in your wings. Shine the light of your salvation on all who sit in the darkness of suffering and the shadow of death. Restore them to life and hope. Encourage all who care for them. Let the good news of your birth among us adorn their suffering with unconquerable joy.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Lord Jesus, you have come to save us from evil, from our sins, and from death. Wipe away the tears of those whose grief runs deep. Stay near us, Lord Jesus, we pray. Love us and guide us throughout our lives. Bless us to be a blessing to others. Bring all your dear children to heaven, to live with you forever in the holy light of your love, which you have shared eternally with your Father and the Holy Spirit, for with them you are one God, now and unto the ages of ages.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Hear and mercifully answer our prayers, dear Lord, according to the favor you bear for your people. Amen.
