When Christmas Isn’t Picture Perfect—A Nighttime Prayer
“So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: ‘Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,’ which is translated, ‘God with us.’” —Matthew 1:22-23 (NKJV)
Please Pray:
Heavenly Father, As I prepare to celebrate Christmas this year, I don’t want to focus on what isn’t picture-perfect in my life. I don’t want comparison to steal my joy when I scroll past idyllic images on social media. And as much as I enjoy the blessings of family, fellowship, and festivities surrounding Christmas, I don’t want to lose sight of the most glorious gift I’ve already received—Your Son, Emmanuel. Jesus, You came into this world without fanfare, glory, or acclaim. You lived an unexpected life that baffled those who thought You would fix their immediate problems, failing to see that You provided an eternal victory instead. Help me to remember this truth when what’s in front of me is anything but ideal. Help me to keep my eyes on You, Emmanuel, as I celebrate your birth this Christmas. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
