O God, I know you are here. But where am I? Halfway through Advent, and I have yet to enter into the heart of this season. How about those prayerful preparations for your birth? And heartfelt repentance to prepare for your return in glory? The truth is, I am rushed, noisy, and busy. I find myself distracted, and even short-tempered with those I love the most.

I know you are here. But where am I?

Help me contemplate your birth: in a bed of straw, with the smell of manure everywhere. Sure is messy, that stable. Come to think of it, my life is pretty messy, too. Open my eyes to see that it is not just into the mess of the stable, but into the messiness of my own life that you enter the world. Help me to stop focusing on everything but you. Remind me that you are here, waiting to love me. Despite my many unfulfilled good intentions about prayer, and my desire to change during this fleeting Advent season, you are here.

Help me begin today.

O Sun of Justice! Pierce the darkness of my sin. Flood the corners of my soul where loneliness and anxiety live. Wake me from my complacence. You are waiting. In these precious few remaining days, help me to open the door and let you in.

Pardon this mess.

Amen.