Christmas, literally the “mass” or holy worship of Jesus Christ, is a time when Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus. The following prayers — holiday family blessing, prayer for those absent at Christmas, prayer for strength during the holidays, and thanksgiving for Christmas gifts — can be used by a Christian who wishes to request peace and blessings for the holiday season.
Holiday Family Blessing
Christmas is a time when the family gathers, for better or worse. The following prayer asks God to guard and protect those present during a family gathering, that they might put aside their differences and focus on Jesus:
“God of power, as we celebrate the birth of Your Son, Jesus, on Christmas, let us be united in Him. Help us to put aside our differences and focus on You, that we might all be united in Your love and stare with wonder at the light of the world, Jesus Christ. Bless this family, [insert individual names, if desired] as we are gathered today, and let us live together in Your love, this Christmas, and always. Amen.”
One might offer this prayer to calm anxiety about an upcoming family gathering or as part of a larger devotion to put aside family differences at Christmas. The prayer may also be used to focus and bless a family gathering, that everyone might intentionally turn to Jesus during the event.
Prayer for Those Absent at Christmas
Christmas can be difficult with loved ones living in a different city or even serving abroad. The following prayer invites God to bless those loved ones not present this Christmas:
“God of love, You brought the angels, the shepherds, and the animals together for Jesus’ birth. As we draw closer to Him, bring us close in spirit with [insert name or names of loved ones absent], that we might worship with them despite being physically apart. Comfort us as we miss [insert name or names of loved ones absent], and keep us all safe and well until we meet again. In Your loving and precious name, Amen.”
Prayer for Strength During the Holidays
The holidays can be a busy time with shopping, preparations, work, and other responsibilities of life. The following prayer asks God to calm holiday stress and bring comfort to those hurrying to get everything done:
“God of power, please take my burdens this holiday season [share specific burdens or problems, if desired]. Let me rest in Your loving arms and focus on You, that I might not miss the reason for Christmas, Your son, Jesus. Bless and keep me. Amen.”
If particularly stressed about a holiday event, one might offer the phrase, “Let me rest in Your loving arms and focus on You,” repeatedly to calm down.
Thanksgiving for Christmas Gifts
It’s easy, in the midst of holiday business, to forget to offer thanksgiving for the many gifts under the tree and in the midst of life. The following prayer offers God thanks for Christmas blessings:
“Loving God, thank you for the gifts You have given this Christmas and for the many ways You have shared Your love with us this Christmas. [Insert specific gifts, if desired]. Guide us to offer our love as generously as You did, giving Your Son Jesus to us. Bless us and teach us to give, this Christmas and always. Amen.”
This prayer might be shared as a devotion with children or the whole family by encouraging everyone to share his/her favorite gift this Christmas. Then, the family might be invited to focus on how each member could give more freely, as God did by offering Jesus to the world.
Christmas is a time for celebration and family. With prayer, Christians can place religion in a central role during the holiday season.
For other holiday prayer ideas, Prayer for December: Christmas Dinner Grace and More might be of interest. Meaningful Gift for a Child: Activities and Outings for Grandparents, Godparents, or other Adults may also be a source of holiday gift ideas.
Melissa Roberts - A trained hospital chaplain, Melissa is a freelance writer, teacher, retreat leader, and spiritual director.
