The following pastoral prayer was offered by the Rev. Jimmy Spear during worship at First Christian Church, Columbia MO on December 15, 2019 and is shared here with permission.
Lord of delight and surprise, as we pass the half way mark in these weeks of waiting you have come to us yet again with opportunity, love, and support. We have in our walk of life reflected on our blessings, your compassion, and our need to be a people of light. It is your light shining in darkness that makes all the difference to our living.
Lord, let us not lack in faith. Let us not forget the message found in a season of light and love. Let us not look around and see it is what we don’t have — instead, direct us in ways of preparation — tell us the prophesies that have guided our people toward a renewed faith, allow us to be your hands and heart in times and places of need, help us to see how much we do have.
As these short days of winter freeze us so, let our spirits keep a warmth and brightness of light that is infectious. Clearing our blindness to the needs of others, strengthen us and move us to places of action and times of cooperation. Help us to truly listen to one another and in our listening find again what matters most in our relationships and in the needs of the world.
Come along with us, O God that we may honor the words of the prophets…making a path in the dry places of the world, clearing our eyes to see faith anew…and in this day, rising up from these pews to behold and believe the wondrous power and joy of Christ’s birth. Amen.
Prayers For Our Country 