God.

Here we are on Christmas eve. In the hospital. Or in a battle zone. Or in a church service.

Some of us, because I can read and listen, are rejoicing about who is close, about how things are.
Some of us, because I can listen, are scared and angry and sad.
Neither Bethlehem nor our hearts are silent.

All of us are completely human. We want hope, we want peace, we want joy, we want love. And we still can’t find what we are looking for or can’t find it for long enough.

We feel like people who are walking in great darkness. We want to see a great light.

In stories we read today, you are Immanuel, God with us.
And You said something once, God, that you were going to be with us always.

As we live our lives and die our deaths, God, let us know that you are with us.
As we give our gifts and struggle with our limits, God, let us taste your greatness.
As we miss our loved ones and love our enemies, God, help us realize your love.
As we worry about what might be, guard our hearts and mind in peace.

Thank you.

Amen.