A Christmas Prayer About Imperfections And Things Perfect

Most Precious Lord Jesus, Gentle And Wonderful God, Truly Awesome And Ever-present Holy Spirit,
Precious Lord Jesus, I love you.
It is Christmas time.
It is the time of year when we gather around your manger scene and marvel at the wonders of your birth.
It would be nice if every day of the year carried Christmas joy.
In truth, I am not in a Christmas mood some of the time because I am afraid.
In truth, I am afraid of public ridicule about my faith.
In truth, I am afraid to stand tall and make proclamations of my faith.
In truth, I would rather run and hide than make statements about my faith, perhaps statements that can touch the world.
At this time of the year, when so many people celebrate your birth, please help me to be stronger and have more courage.
Help me to have courage as you helped Joseph have courage.
Instruct me, in all the ways you deem wise, to see past my fears, doubts, and insecurities.
I will, as best I can, open my heart and life up to you.
I will, as best I can, look not at myself this Christmas, but instead look at you, at how you worked in the life of Joseph, and at how you worked in the life of Mary.
As it is your will, take away my fear so I may show others your love.
As it is your will, reach me so I may reach others in your name.
All these things I humbly pray in the name of my most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ, my Mighty God, and my Ever-present Holy Spirit upon whom I can rely.
Amen