Prayer for America 11/22/05

As winter arrives and we anticipate the coming holidays, I thank you, God, for the national mood of celebration and festivity that is shared by so many Americans. In this season of cheer and goodwill, place your Spirit of peace and love among us and within us.

Help us collectively to focus on the more meaningful aspects of the holidays, even as commercialism and stress attempt to push them out of our hearts and minds. Make us kinder toward one another as we look for parking places and shop, more willing to slow down and look out for the elderly and infirm among us, more patient with those who are working overtime to serve us during this busy season. And remind us to take time out to worship and thank you for the blessings of life, home, family, faith, and country. Amen.