Christmas peace

Given how I earn my living, I cannot help but be aware of the deep ambiguity of Christmas. It is indeed a time of goodwill, joy and peace. It is also a time of terrible sorrow and loneliness. Many of my clients are grieving at this time of year. Some are recovering addicts, and the old habits of chemically altering their moods during festive occasions makes for a slippery-ness not just underfoot with the snow and ice. Nobody likes pain; we're encouraged to run from it, one way or another. I find that my opportunity to be with people in their pain -- not to run from it, but not to bear it alone -- is, like CS Lewis put it, "A Terrible Grace."

And so, Lord, for those who are grieving, alone, cold or lonely:

Hear our prayer...