Note: The pronoun her is used throughout this prayer. If you are praying through a son’s birthday, substitute his name, his, and him throughout. Where appropriate, substitute your experiences for those expressed here. Feel free to substitute “we” and “us” as well if you are able to pray this with your spouse today.
Eternal God,
You are infinite, eternal, and unchangeable.
You reign over all, separate from time and space.
Be with me here today where gravity anchors my body to the earth and my memories lock me to my beloved stranger who celebrates a birthday today.
Today feels like it will last a thousand years. Will You please be with me through every moment and memory?
Birthdays are always about the anticipation, looking forward to the big day. Guide me to anticipate what You are doing in her life and to wait expectantly to witness Your will coming to fruition.
I feel anger that I cannot be with her today to celebrate. I remember the parties I planned and hosted. Help me to be grateful for those moments and pray for her joy today.
I mourn what I’ve lost—the conversations and the closeness. Lead me to thank You for all those precious moments, rather than whine about what’s missing.
I remember the presents, wrapped with care, that she opened with joy. Today, I want to remember that she is a gift from You.
I won’t fill a bag of discarded paper, tape, and bows. Will You continue to show me how to get rid of all of my negative thoughts and behaviors? May I bring my filthy rags to You in repentance?
Be with me as I look at the notches in the door frame that marked her growth from toddler to teen. Comfort me as I hear the echoes of her conversations with friends, laughter, singing, and dancing feet. Remind me that You began a good work in her and that You will be faithful to complete it.
I worship You, Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I worship You, the creator of time.
Here, there will be no cake decorated with her passions and for her delight. Will You please grant to us our daily bread and help me look to You to uphold her and me?
No wisps of smoke will rise from blown-out birthday candles. I long to rest in You, especially today, knowing that my life is just a vapor, appearing for a little while.
You are the same today, yesterday, and forever. Where I am stuck today, will You lift my chin, dry my eyes, and point me to what is eternal? When I see photographs of past birthdays, will You direct my gaze to Your plan for her?
In this moment, I pray for her. Will You grant her joy today? Surround her with those who love her, remind her that there is only one like her in the entire universe, lead her to give You thanks for breathing life into her, and bring her peace. Energize her with plans for her future and prompt her to thank You for all You’ve provided. Wrap Your arms of love around her today.
And since I can’t hug her today myself, will You embrace me in Your love and care today, too?
You are the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God. To You be honor and glory forever and ever.
Amen