God our Creator, you have created this new day of life as a gift, which we do not deserve. You have allowed me to wake up this morning. I pray your help, so that I may live during this day in ways that please you.

During these final days of Advent, I pray that you will move among us as Holy Spirit, opening us to see and rejoice at the coming of our Savior. I pray for all who will be gathering with family, that they will enjoy each other with joy magnified by your presence. I pray for those who feel lonely at this time of year, that they will be comforted by your presence. ("Emanuel -- which means, God with us.") I give you thanks for those who have invited friends without family to share Christmas with them.

As we wait and watch for your coming into our lives, I pray for all suffering from physical, emotional and spiritual illness. Bless them with patience and courage, as they watch for the healing that comes from you.

And I give you thanks for the wonderful congregation of St. Stephen. I thank you for the ways you are working through them to sustain me during these weeks, with their prayers and acts of love. I pray that they will continue to be richly nourished during my absence, through worship and preaching and bread and wine. I pray your blessings on your servant, Bob, who is preparing to serve as Interim Pastor during the month January. Continue to bless the staff, Sandy, Robin and Michael, with your guidance during the interim. Continue to give the congregation's leaders good cheer.

All of this I pray in the name of our coming Lord, Jesus the Christ. Amen.