A Seasonal Prayer for Healing

For my final blog of 2009, I’ve decided to share the brief opening remarks and prayer I offered for Hospice of Dayton’s holiday memorial tribute and tree lighting ceremony. Feel God’s light, love, and peace during this traditional time of worship and celebration.

John

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From a secular perspective, the holiday season can be stressful: shopping, baking, decorating, making travel plans to visit loved ones, or preparing our homes for loved ones who are visiting. There is much to do, and little time.

But from a spiritual perspective, the holidays may be viewed differently. We can seek peace, not chaos. We can give thanks for our blessings. We can worship God through the rituals and traditions of our chosen faith. And we can reflect on the opportunities we’ve received to grow spiritually. Let us do so now in prayer.

Heavenly Father: When someone we love dies, it leaves an emptiness – a void – in our hearts. We feel genuine pain and sorrow. We grieve, and that is normal; for our lives will never be the same as before. Yet, there is a choice to make. That emptiness in our hearts must be filled. We can allow anger and fear to invade us. Or, we can choose to ask God to fill our hearts with love and forgiveness.

This evening, we honor the lives of those who are dearly missed. We pay tribute to them. And at the same time, we recognize our need for healing. During this holiday season – for those who feel pain and emptiness – God, we ask that their hearts be filled with love and forgiveness. We ask for healing to begin. We thank you and praise you, and we accept your divine grace. Amen.

God wishes us to live joyously! Make time in your busy schedule to celebrate the human experience. In a few moments, the lights on our Christmas tree will shine brightly. These lights shall symbolize a beacon of hope. May your spirit shine brightly as well. May you feel God’s presence, and experience his peace.