Tangled in tape, lists, and holiday wrappings, we are all thumbs of excitement!
Bless the surprises we’ve selected, wrapped, and hidden.
Restore to us the joy of anticipation. We want to be surprised too.
Our wish lists include the gift of peace possibilities,
of ears to hear a summons
and eyes to spot another’s need or triumph,
of being able to make a difference.

As we cut the tape, God of surprises, remind us to keep in touch
with the gift’s recipient after the wrapping papers are long gone
and the ornaments packed.

from Simple Prayers and Blessings, Margaret Anne Huffman and Gary Wilde