God, in a season when our days are filled with commitments, lists, and expectations, we pause before You to acknowledge that many times we organize everything around us, yet neglect the space within us.
We ask for forgiveness for the times our schedules have been too full for Your presence. Teach us to slow down, to be silent, and to remember that what matters most is not what we prepare externally, but the place we open in our hearts to receive You.
Jesus, just as on that night when there was no room for You in the inn, we recognize that at times there is no space in our routine for Your voice. We clean the house, plan gatherings, and dream about the new year, but leave our hearts disordered. Today, willingly, we open the door. Remove from us anxiety, the need for control, and haste, so that You may not be just a visitor, but the One who remains with us.
Help us align our expectations with Yours. In the midst of earthly plans, teach us to prepare the way for Your presence. May we not be merely excited about dates, but passionate about walking with You every day. May we seek first Your Kingdom, trusting that when You are at the center, everything finds its place and our hearts find rest.
Holy Spirit, transform our inner being. Renew our minds, our thoughts, and our intentions. We want to offer ourselves as a living, holy, and pleasing sacrifice, allowing Your hands to shape our dreams and redirect our steps. May our preparation not be only for a new year, but for a new way of living, sensitive to Your voice and following Your will.
We place this time in Your hands. May Christmas be more than a date, and may the New Year be more than a turn of the calendar. May both become deep encounters with You. Receive our surrendered hearts as the greatest gift we can offer You. Sustain us in every new season and walk with us, today and always.
In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
