Christmas Prayers to the Child Jesus

O Christ Child, swaddled  in rags this earth-changing night,

You—God—Who has no beginning and no end,

          You were there  at the creation with God the Father.

          You knew us better—even then—than we know

          ourselves. The Spirit now moves us to recall our sins

          from which You have set us free, forgiven us and

          continue to do so each time we ask.

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Born to die, O tiny Babe, the neonate for Whom

Bethlehem had “no room” left at the time of enrollment,

          You set us right with the Father, through Your cruel death

          on the Cross and Your long-foretold Resurrection. Through

          saving grace—through faith—You forgive us our sins.

          You equip us in Your Holy Church, to do Your Will,

          to do good, and to share Your Love.

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O Tiny Savior, cherished new-born Redeemer King, You Who are

Love itself, the True Joy born into the world,

           As we celebrate Your birth once again this Christmas,

           may all people come to  know You and Your Inconceivable

          Forgiveness.  Walk with us this day that we may we walk in

          life’s  newness and sin no more. May we be witness to Your

          inclusive Love offered to all people; You never pick and choose.

*

O Jesus, born a human  infant so many years ago on this glad night,

You, Who ascended to Heaven after Your work on earth was done,

           Give us grace to do your will, even when we do not understand

          or when life hurts. May we learn  to accept the power of Your

          love, so that we can gently guide those who do not yet believe

          toward Your Forgiveness. Bless us with Heavenly minds.

          Let us never forget, You died so that all who ask may live.

*

Sweet baby, suckling Mary Virgin breast—

born a child and yet a King”—fully God and completely man,

          we honor You; we praise You; we worship You like the

          humble shepherds did. On bended knee, we now

          bow down to Thee. You made us—not only for earth,

          but also for heaven—to live with you, forevermore.

          May we  all make room for You this difficult year. Amen.

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