Including a Bible verse in your Christmas prayers is a beautiful way to reflect on the true meaning of the season. Scripture reminds us of God’s love, the gift of Jesus, and the hope and joy Christmas brings. Whether you’re praying alone or with loved ones, these verses can inspire your words and deepen your connection to God.
Here’s a Christmas prayer inspired by a meaningful Bible verse:
Bible Verse: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)
Prayer:
“Dear God, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, born to bring light, hope, and salvation to the world. As we celebrate His birth, fill our hearts with peace and joy. Help us to share Your love with others and remember the true reason for this season. Amen.”
Want more Bible verses and prayers to guide your Christmas season? Keep reading for additional inspiration! 🎄📖
10 Christmas Morning Prayers to Start the Day Right 🌅🙏
1. A Prayer of Gratitude
“Dear Heavenly Father, on this Christmas morning, I thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who brought light into our world. Fill my heart with gratitude and joy, and help me to share the love and hope of this season with everyone around me. Amen.”
2. A Prayer for Peace
“Lord, as we celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, I pray for calm and harmony in my heart, my family, and the world. Let Your peace reign in every corner of our lives today and always. Amen.”
3. A Prayer for Loved Ones
“Father God, thank You for the blessing of family and friends. On this special day, I lift them up to You, asking for Your protection, health, and joy over their lives. May Your love bind us together in unity and grace. Amen.”
4. A Prayer of Joy
“Jesus, You are the joy of Christmas. As we remember Your humble birth, fill my heart with pure delight. May my words and actions reflect the happiness of knowing You and sharing Your love with others. Amen.”
5. A Prayer for the Needy
“Loving God, as I celebrate this day with warmth and abundance, I remember those who are in need. May Your blessings flow to them, bringing comfort, provision, and hope. Teach me how to be a vessel of Your kindness and generosity. Amen.”
6. A Prayer for Hope
“Father, Christmas reminds us of the promise of hope fulfilled in Jesus. Help me to trust in Your plans for my life, knowing that even in uncertain times, Your light guides me. Amen.”
7. A Prayer for Reflection
“God of all creation, as I celebrate the birth of Christ, remind me to pause and reflect on His life and teachings. Let me grow in faith and align my heart with His example of love and humility. Amen.”
8. A Prayer for Forgiveness
“Merciful God, on this sacred morning, I ask for forgiveness for my sins. Cleanse my heart and help me walk closer with You. As Christ forgave us, teach me to forgive others and live in grace. Amen.”
9. A Prayer for Strength
“Almighty Father, thank You for Your unending strength. As I honor the birth of Jesus, equip me to face challenges with faith and courage. Let Your power sustain me in every step I take. Amen.”
10. A Prayer of Worship
“O Holy God, on this Christmas morning, I bow my heart in awe of Your majesty. Thank You for sending Jesus, the greatest gift of all. May my life be an offering of worship and praise to You today and every day. Amen.”
10 Short Christmas Prayers for Busy Moms 🏡❤️
1. Morning Strength
“Lord, as the day begins, grant me the strength and patience to handle everything with love and joy. Amen.”
2. A Moment of Gratitude
“Thank You, Jesus, for my family and the love we share. Help me to see the blessings in every moment today. Amen.”
3. Quick Peace Prayer
“Prince of Peace, calm my mind and fill my heart with serenity amid the hustle of this day. Amen.”
4. A Prayer for Joy
“Jesus, fill my home with laughter and joy as we celebrate Your birth. Help me to reflect Your light to my family. Amen.”
5. For Energy and Focus
“God, give me the energy to serve my family today and keep my focus on what truly matters—Your love. Amen.”
6. Prayer for Patience
“Lord, when things get hectic, help me to stay patient and kind, remembering Your example of grace. Amen.”
7. For a Grateful Heart
“Jesus, as I juggle tasks, let my heart remain thankful for the gift of family and this season. Amen.”
8. Evening Rest
“Father, thank You for carrying me through this day. Bless my rest tonight and prepare me for tomorrow. Amen.”
9. For Family Harmony
“Lord, let love, understanding, and peace fill our home today as we celebrate You. Amen.”
10. Quick Praise
“Thank You, Jesus, for coming into our world. Let everything I do today honor Your gift to us. Amen.”
10 Christmas Prayers for Kids 🎄👧👦
1. Thank You for Jesus
“Dear God, thank You for sending Jesus to us. Help me to love others like He does. Amen.”
2. A Prayer for Family
“Jesus, thank You for my family. Bless them today and keep us happy and healthy. Amen.”
3. For a Happy Christmas
“Dear God, please make this Christmas full of fun, laughter, and love. Thank You for all the good things in my life. Amen.”
4. For Kindness
“Jesus, help me to be kind and share with others just like You shared Your love with us. Amen.”
5. A Prayer of Thanks
“Thank You, God, for presents, food, and a warm home. I know all these gifts come from You. Amen.”
6. For Friends and Family
“God, bless my friends and family this Christmas. Keep them safe and happy. Amen.”
7. For the World
“Dear Jesus, I pray for kids everywhere who might not have presents or food. Please take care of them and show them Your love. Amen.”
8. A Prayer for Love
“Thank You, God, for loving me so much that You gave us Jesus. Help me to show Your love to everyone I meet. Amen.”
9. For Peace
“Jesus, please bring peace to the world, to my home, and to my heart. Amen.”
10. A Christmas Praise
“Hallelujah, Jesus is born! Thank You, God, for this wonderful day. Amen.”
10 Christmas Bible Verses About Jesus’ Birth 🌟👶
1. Isaiah 9:6
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
2. Luke 2:11
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
3. Matthew 1:21
“She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
4. Luke 2:14
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
5. John 1:14
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
6. Matthew 2:10-11
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him.”
7. Micah 5:2
“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.”
8. Luke 1:35
“The angel answered her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.’”
9. Galatians 4:4-5
“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.”
10. Matthew 1:23
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).”
10 Bible Verses to Share in Christmas Cards 📬📜
1. Isaiah 7:14
“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
2. Luke 2:7
“And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.”
3. John 3:16
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
4. 2 Corinthians 9:15
“Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!”
5. Matthew 2:2
“Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”
6. Psalm 96:11-12
“Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it!”
7. Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
8. Luke 2:19
“But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.”
9. Zechariah 9:9
“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he.”
10. Philippians 2:10-11
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
10 Gratitude-Focused Christmas Prayers 🎁🙌
1. Thank You for the Gift of Jesus
“Dear God, thank You for the incredible gift of Jesus, the greatest expression of Your love. Help me to cherish this gift every day. Amen.”
2. A Prayer for Life’s Blessings
“Lord, thank You for my family, friends, and the many ways You have provided for us. May my heart overflow with gratitude this Christmas. Amen.”
3. For the Little Things
“Heavenly Father, thank You for the small joys—the sparkle of lights, the warmth of hugs, and the laughter of loved ones. Amen.”
4. Gratitude for Salvation
“Jesus, I am so thankful for the salvation You brought through Your birth, life, and sacrifice. May I never take this gift for granted. Amen.”
5. A Prayer of Contentment
“Lord, thank You for giving me enough—enough love, enough joy, and enough grace to meet each day. Help me to live content in Your blessings. Amen.”
6. For Grateful Generosity
“Father, as I celebrate Your generosity in sending Jesus, help me to give joyfully and generously to others. Amen.”
7. For Time Together
“Dear God, thank You for this time to gather with family and friends. May we cherish every moment as a gift from You. Amen.”
8. A Heart of Thanksgiving
“Lord, let my heart be filled with thanksgiving, not only for today but in every season of life. Thank You for Your endless blessings. Amen.”
9. Gratitude for Comfort and Hope
“Thank You, God, for the comfort and hope that comes from knowing Jesus. In every situation, You are my rock. Amen.”
10. For the Gift of Today
“Lord, I am thankful for this day to celebrate the birth of Jesus. May I honor this moment with gratitude and joy. Amen.”
10 Bible Verses on Peace and Joy for Christmas 🎶☮️
1. Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
2. Luke 2:10
“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.’”
3. John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
4. Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
5. Isaiah 55:12
“For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.”
6. Psalm 16:11
“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”
7. Colossians 3:15
“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
8. Isaiah 26:3
“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”
9. Zephaniah 3:17
“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”
10. Proverbs 17:22
“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”
10 Christmas Prayers for Families Around the Dinner Table 🍽️🙏
1. A Prayer of Thanksgiving
“Heavenly Father, thank You for the food before us, the family beside us, and the love between us. Bless this meal and our time together as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Amen.”
2. For Unity and Love
“Lord, bless our family gathered here. Let love and unity fill our hearts as we remember the gift of Your Son. Thank You for Your endless blessings. Amen.”
3. For Joyful Celebration
“Dear God, we thank You for this day of joy. Bless this meal and the laughter we share, reminding us of the joy that comes from knowing Jesus. Amen.”
4. A Prayer of Grace
“Lord, as we share this meal, may Your grace overflow in our hearts. Bless the hands that prepared it and those who are not with us today. Amen.”
5. A Prayer for Provision
“Thank You, Father, for providing this food and the roof over our heads. May we never forget Your faithfulness and love. Amen.”
6. For Family Bonds
“God, thank You for bringing us together this Christmas. Strengthen the bonds of our family and help us to reflect Your love to one another. Amen.”
7. A Blessing for the Meal
“Lord, bless this food to nourish our bodies and our time together to nourish our souls. May our conversations glorify You. Amen.”
8. A Prayer of Remembrance
“Jesus, as we enjoy this feast, we remember those who have less. Bless them with Your provision, and inspire us to be generous in sharing Your love. Amen.”
10 Bible Verses About God’s Love During Christmas ❤️✝️
- John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
- The ultimate reminder of God’s love and sacrifice.
- Isaiah 9:6 – “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
- A prophecy celebrating the birth of Jesus, our Savior.
- Luke 2:11 – “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.”
- God’s love made real through the gift of Jesus’ birth.
- Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
- A reminder that God’s love is unconditional.
- 1 John 4:9-10 – “This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”
- The heart of Christmas is God’s perfect love.
- Matthew 1:21 – “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.”
- A verse celebrating the purpose of Jesus’ birth.
- Titus 3:4-5 – “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy.”
- God’s love is a gift, not something we earn.
- Zephaniah 3:17 – “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love, He will no longer rebuke you but will rejoice over you with singing.”
- A beautiful reminder of God’s joy and love for us.
- 2 Corinthians 9:15 – “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!”
- A simple, powerful verse of gratitude for God’s love through Jesus.
- Psalm 36:7 – “How priceless is Your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.”
- A comforting reminder of the everlasting nature of God’s love.
10 Christmas Eve Prayers for Reflection and Peace 🌌🕊️
- Prayer of Gratitude for the Savior
Heavenly Father, as we gather on this holy night, we thank You for the gift of Jesus, the Light of the World. Fill our hearts with gratitude for His love and sacrifice. May we reflect His peace and joy to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen. - A Family Prayer for Unity
Lord, we thank You for this time together as a family. Bind us in Your love and harmony, just as the angels proclaimed peace on Earth. Help us to cherish one another and keep Christ at the center of our celebration. Amen. - Quiet Reflection for Peace
O God of peace, still our hearts tonight. Let the silent beauty of Christmas Eve remind us of Your presence. May Your peace fill our homes and inspire us to be peacemakers in the world. Amen. - Prayer for Hope in Hard Times
Lord, tonight we remember Your promise of hope. Even in our challenges, we trust in the joy that came through Christ’s birth. Help us to rest in Your faithfulness and carry this hope into the days ahead. Amen. - A Child’s Christmas Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank You for being born and for loving us. Help us to remember You are the best gift ever. Bless our family and friends and help us show kindness and love like You do. Amen. - Prayer for Those Who Are Lonely
God of comfort, we lift up those who feel alone tonight. Surround them with Your love and remind them they are never forgotten. Help us to be Your hands and feet, bringing joy to those in need. Amen. - A Blessing Over the Meal
Father, we thank You for this meal and the hands that prepared it. Bless this food to our bodies and our time to our spirits. May this evening remind us of the greatest gift—Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen. - Prayer for the World
God of all nations, as we celebrate the birth of Christ, we pray for peace across the world. Heal the brokenhearted, guide leaders, and bring justice where it is needed. May Your light shine in every corner of the earth. Amen. - Personal Prayer for Renewal
Lord, as I reflect on this sacred night, renew my faith and fill me with Your Spirit. Help me to walk in Your light and share Your love. Thank You for Jesus, who gives us all hope and new life. Amen. - Midnight Reflection on the Nativity
Holy God, as we gaze upon the night sky, we are in awe of the wonder of Christ’s birth. Just as the shepherds knelt before the manger, we bow before You with hearts full of praise. Thank You for Emmanuel—God with us. Amen.
10 Bible Verses to Teach Children the Meaning of Christmas 👶📖
- Luke 2:11
“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.” - Isaiah 9:6
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” - Matthew 2:10
“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.” - John 1:14
“The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” - Luke 2:14
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” - Matthew 1:23
“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel, which means ‘God with us.'” - Micah 5:2
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” - Galatians 4:4-5
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.” - Luke 2:7
“And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”
10 Unique Christmas Prayers for Couples 💑🎄
- Prayer for Shared Gratitude
Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts for this season of love and hope. Thank You for the gift of each other and for the joy of celebrating Christ’s birth together. Help us to cherish and support one another as we grow in Your love. Amen. - Prayer for Strength and Commitment
Lord, as we reflect on the commitment of Mary and Joseph, may we find strength in our own relationship. Guide us to honor You in our love and to encourage each other in faith and kindness. Amen. - Prayer for New Beginnings
Dear God, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we ask for Your blessing on the new beginnings in our lives as a couple. Fill our hearts with hope and remind us of the promise of Your faithfulness in every season. Amen. - Prayer for Love and Forgiveness
Jesus, You came into the world to bring love and redemption. Teach us to forgive each other as You forgive us. May our love reflect Your grace, shining brightly during this Christmas season and beyond. Amen. - Prayer for Christ-Centered Relationship
Father, help us to keep Christ at the center of our relationship, not only at Christmas but every day. Bless our time together and guide us to serve You as a couple, bringing Your light to those around us. Amen. - Prayer for Shared Joy
God of joy, thank You for the gift of laughter and love in our relationship. This Christmas, may we find joy in simple moments, celebrating Your goodness and the blessings we share. Amen. - Prayer for Guiding Our Future
Lord, as we remember the miracle of Jesus’ birth, we pray for guidance in our future as a couple. Help us to trust You with our plans and to grow stronger together in faith. Amen. - Prayer of Thanksgiving for Each Other
Heavenly Father, thank You for bringing us together. This Christmas, we celebrate not only the gift of Your Son but also the gift of our love. Help us to honor and appreciate each other every day. Amen. - Prayer for Shared Generosity
Lord, let this Christmas inspire us to give generously of our time, love, and resources as a couple. May our actions reflect the giving spirit of Christ, bringing hope to those in need. Amen. - Prayer for Peace in Our Home
Prince of Peace, we ask for Your calm and harmony in our relationship and home. Help us to nurture a loving, peaceful environment where Your presence is always felt. Amen.
10 Christmas Prayers to Celebrate Faith and Unity ✝️🤝
- Prayer for Church Fellowship
Lord, we thank You for the gift of our church family. This Christmas, may we celebrate in unity, sharing the love of Christ with one another and with the world. Strengthen our bonds in faith and service. Amen. - Prayer for Global Unity
Father, as we celebrate the birth of Your Son, we pray for unity among all people. Break down the barriers that divide us and help us to live as one family under Your grace. Amen. - Prayer for Family Togetherness
God of love, we thank You for the blessing of family. Bring us closer together this Christmas, and help us to reflect Your love in our words and actions. May our faith grow stronger as we celebrate Jesus. Amen. - Prayer for Reconciliation
Jesus, You came to restore and heal. This Christmas, we pray for reconciliation in relationships that are broken. Help us to forgive, to listen, and to love as You do. Unite us in Your peace. Amen. - Prayer for Faith in Action
Lord, as we remember the humble beginnings of Jesus’ life, inspire us to put our faith into action. May this Christmas lead us to serve, give, and love more deeply in unity with one another. Amen. - Prayer for Unity Among Nations
Father, as we celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, we pray for unity among nations. May the message of Christ’s love bring understanding, compassion, and peace to the world. Amen. - Prayer for Shared Worship
Lord, thank You for the privilege of worshipping together this Christmas. As we lift our voices in praise, unite our hearts in faith, and remind us of the joy of being Your people. Amen. - Prayer for Workplace Unity
God of light, we pray for unity in our workplaces this season. Help us to show kindness, respect, and patience with our colleagues, reflecting the love of Christ in our actions. Amen. - Prayer for Strength in Unity
Father, just as the shepherds and wise men came together to worship the Savior, may we come together in unity this Christmas. Strengthen our faith and inspire us to walk in harmony. Amen. - Prayer for Community Peace
Prince of Peace, we lift up our community to You this Christmas. Bless our neighbors, bring healing where it is needed, and help us to work together to build a place of love and faith. Amen.
10 Comforting Bible Verses for Christmas Reflection 🌿🕯️
- Matthew 1:23
“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel, which means ‘God with us.'”
- This verse reminds us of God’s presence with us through Christ, offering comfort and reassurance during this holy season.
- Isaiah 9:6
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
- A powerful reminder of Jesus’ role in bringing peace and hope to a weary world.
- Luke 2:10-11
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.'”
- This passage invites us to find joy in the good news of Christ’s birth, even amidst life’s challenges.
- John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
- Jesus’ promise of peace can calm troubled hearts during the Christmas season.
- Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
- A comforting assurance of the peace that comes from God, perfect for reflection during Christmas.
- Psalm 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
- This verse invites quiet contemplation and trust in God’s sovereignty during the busy holiday season.
- Romans 8:38-39
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
- A profound reminder of the inseparable love of God, especially comforting at Christmas.
- Zephaniah 3:17
“The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love, He will no longer rebuke you but will rejoice over you with singing.”
- A beautiful expression of God’s delight and love for His people, perfect for Christmas reflection.
- 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.”
- This verse reminds us of God’s comforting presence, especially for those facing challenges during the holidays.
- Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
- A reassuring truth of Christ’s unchanging nature, offering stability and hope as we reflect on His birth and eternal presence.
