This time of year there is a lot of talk about peace. We read of angels praising God, saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” We sing of the birth of the “Prince of Peace.” And yet the on-the-ground reality can hardly be said to be peaceful. Our homes are chaotic as we decorate and shop and pack. Our jobs are more stressful as we try to cram in as much work as possible so we can enjoy a little time off. Our minds are bombarded with story after story that reinforces the notion that even if we have found a little peace in our own lives, our world knows no peace.
Throughout the Scriptures God’s people are constantly hoping for and working toward peace. Beyond human longing and effort, God, too, is working to establish peace. So it only seems appropriate for us to pray always for peace, but especially during this time when we celebrate the coming of the “Prince of Peace.”
Peace-loving and peace-making and peace-giving God,
We pray you would impart to us your love for peace.
We pray you would impart to us your commitment to making peace.
We pray you would impart to us your peace and to others your peace through us.
We pray your peace be with all whose lives are burdened with grief.
We pray your peace be with all whose lives are riddled with conflict.
We pray your peace be with all whose lives are weighed down with despair.
We pray your peace be with all whose lives are plagued by worry.
We pray you would help us remain ever grateful for the peace we receive.
We pray you would help us remain ever dedicated to making peace.
We pray you would help us remain ever aware of your desire for peace.
In the name of the Prince of Peace
Who, like you, is peace-loving
Who, like you, is peace-making
Who, like you, is peace-giving and, like us, is peace-receiving.
Amen.
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