Lord Jesus, Master of both the light and the darkness,

send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.

We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day.

We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.

We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.

We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.

We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light.

To you we say,

“Come Lord Jesus!” (Henri Nouwen)

I’m sure I posted this previously at some point, but I needed to read it again. We all need reminding that ultimately it’s not about all the gifts or decorations. It’s not about getting the house just right for the holidays when friends and family come over.

It’s about preparing our hearts to receive the Christ-child. It’s remembering that Jesus didn’t wait until our homes were spotless and our lives were together before He came. He didn’t make sure that we had cleaned up from all our addictions and struggles before He entered the world on that night.

He came to us to love us as we are but to show us how He can transform us to be just like Him, just like He called people when they were prostitutes and tax collectors and reprobates but when He was finished with them they were disciples.

Even now, Christ comes to those who are weakest, who are the least put together, whose need is greatest. He comes not for those who help themselves but for those who know beyond all doubt that they can’t. He comes for the unfaithful, the unworthy, and the undeserving. He comes for you and me.