This year in particular, let’s take every opportunity to prepare for the coming of Christ. 2020 has reminded us at every turn that we don’t control the future of the world, but we can take comfort in preparing our hearts and homes. Blessing of Your Christmas Tree By Rev. Brittney J. Stephan (The instructions are written for more than one person, but know God is with you no matter how many are in your home.) Sing along or listen to O Christmas Tree while setting up your tree. Verse 1: O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How green your branches ever! You still are green when summer wanes And wintry winds sweep o'er the plains. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How green your branches ever! Stand near your tree. (holding hands for the prayer is optional, just do what is natural for your family.) READER: Loving God, we come to you in this season of Advent. As we continue to prepare our hearts, minds, and home, we ask that you will bless even our Christmas tree as a reminder that your love is always with us. Extend hands with palms toward tree, while one person sprinkles a small amount of water on the tree as next section is read. READER: Creator God, we praise you for the rich soil and refreshing rains that bring seeds to life. Always changing, yet remaining, your provision is steadfast. Throughout this season, remind us of your eternal presence in our home as we enjoy the freshness this greenery brings us. Sing along while putting lights on the tree. Verse 2: O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, What golden lights adorn thee! Like stars they shine in beauty bright, To fill each heart with pure delight. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, What golden lights adorn thee! With lights in place, extend hands with palms toward tree, while lights are turned on as next section is read. READER: Illuminating God, you give us light in our darkness. These strong branches will uphold the light as we make our way toward Christmas. May your blessings fall upon us and all who pass through our home in the year to come. Sing along while putting garland/tinsel on the tree. Verse 3: O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree Your boughs can teach a lesson That constant faith and hope sublime Lend strength and comfort through all time O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree Your boughs can teach a lesson. Finish placing the garland/tinsel, Extend hands with palms toward tree, as next section is read. READER: The boughs are wrapped with garland and tinsel reminding us of Your peace and comfort. Troubles will come and our stress may rise, but remind us O God, that your Spirit will see us through. Help us to know your blessing as we prepare for the birth of Christ. Sing along while putting ornaments on the tree. Verse 4: O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How loving hands have decked thee! Thus God's own love will make of me A radiant soul for all to see. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How loving hands have decked thee! Finish placing the ornaments, extend hands with palms toward tree, as next section is read. READER: We lovingly place our ornaments to tie generations together. The colors and shimmer make our hearts happy! O God, prepare our hearts and our heads for the revelation of your son Jesus. O Living God of past, present, and future, we praise you for this moment. Offer us a glimpse of your joy in these days as we worship you through our words and deeds while we’re at home. Grant us safety in a world that so desperately needs justice, health and peace. All this we ask in the name of the Holy Child who calls us to be bearers of light and love now and forevermore. Amen. .