Today in the Northern Hemisphere we experience the shortest day and longest night of the year. Darkness lasts longest in the morning, and comes in quickly in the afternoon. Although many of us are preparing for the joys of Christmas, some find these dark days and long nights difficult to endure. If you know someone who has lost a loved one, someone who lives alone or who is unable to leave their home, today would be a good day to give them a call and let them know they are not forgotten.
Dear Lord of Light,
On this short day, when night lingers, be with us and lighten our lives.
Help us to look past the darkness and see the hope all around us.
Help us to find ways to work for peace in times of turmoil.
Help us to reach out to our loved ones who are struggling, and if we are struggling help us to be open to the help of others.
Soon we will celebrate your incarnation.
Today, although it is dark, we prepare in our hearts and our homes to celebrate the miracle of your birth,
and the beginning of our salvation story.
Thank you Lord for being our light, for being our Star, guiding us through the night.
Amen.