And the streets of the city

shall be full of

       boys and girls

       playing in the streets.

         Zechariah 8. 5

(A picture of restoration

         and joy,

the way God intended life

                  all along.)

O LORD,

You have proclaimed

       joy to the world

by sending Your Son

to save us from the darkness.

Please keep our hearts strong

        and without fear

that we may bless You

            by blessing others

and bringing the gospel

   wherever we go

and in whatever situation we are.

May we be sowers of peace

   and nurturers of all souls

   You place on our paths.

Help us to live so full of grace,

adorned with peace,

and joy in every pocket

that others see and seek

  the difference You make

  in our lives.

Glory to the newborn King.

Immanuel --

     You are with us.