Lord, on this first day of December, we turn to you with grateful hearts. We thank you for all the gifts of the past months, for the difficulties from which we have learned, and for the joys that have filled our hearts. We ask you to bless December, which is a month of anticipation and hope. Help us, as we prepare for Christmas, to focus not on outward appearances, but on what is essential: love and peace. Grant us open hearts to welcome those in need and to share in the joy of others. Fill our hearts with the gifts of faith, hope, love, and joy. Bless our families, communities, our friends, and all the people we meet. Lead us on your path so that we may touch the world with your love. We ask that your peace descend upon us and fill our hearts during this festive season. Amen.