Christmas Eve

All of a sudden I feel the need for stillness. Not the stillness by the manger, but the stillness of the night in the field with the wind moving and a small fire crackling and boredom for company. No more excitement or stimulation or hurried preparations. No music and no expectations. Just a little spot of settled solitude.

Maybe even a little sleep.

O Lord, support us all the day long, until the shadows lengthen, and the evening comes, and the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over, and our work is done. Then in your mercy, grant us a safe lodging, and a holy rest, and peace at the last. Amen.

Peace and blessings to you and yours this Christmas.