O God, we continue to celebrate the first noel in which you sent us the greatest gift that we can ever receive, the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. And today, we have followed the star to this very place to offer our worship, our praise, and our gifts to the Christ Child.
On this Epiphany Sunday, we join the Wise Men in singing, “Noel, Noel, born is the king of Israel.” We join them in offering our very best gifts to you because you have given us a gift that is meant to be opened every day, the gift of your hope, your peace, your joy, and your love.
Thank you for these gifts, O God that are not only meant for us, but also for those who are on our hearts and minds this day including the people on our church’s prayer list. May your gifts of hope, peace, joy, and love bless all who are in need of you this day.
Remind us throughout this New Year that the good news of Christ’s birth is not just meant for us to celebrate during these twelve days of Christmas, but also during all twelve months of the year. O God, throughout this year, help us to live as if Christ was born yesterday.
Even during those days that feel mundane and routine, be born in us. During those times when we face problems and adversity, be born in us. During those moments when we are feeling down and discouraged, be born in us. During those times of sorrow and sadness, be born in us.
Be born in us, Lord Jesus in this very moment and in this very time and place, as we pray the prayer that you taught us to say together…
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
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