But when the goodness and loving-kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
O Christ,
you come to us at Christmas
in humility born as a babe in Bethlehem.
You ARE the goodness and loving-kindness of God
come among us!
Your coming changes everything.
Our lives are changed, saved, redeemed, transformed
not because of any works of righteousness that we have done,
but according to YOUR mercy
through the gift of your Holy Spirit.
The gift you give is not found wrapped under a tree.
Rather the gift you give is yourself:
your life,
your laugh,
your love,
your light,
your lament,
your languish,
your liberty,
your life eternal.
Give us pause this Christmas
to hold your gift,
to enjoy your gift,
to give your gift.
So that,
having justified by YOUR grace,
all might become heirs
according to the hope
of eternal life.
Amen.
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