The 1917 Common Service Book provides two collects or prayers of the day for Christmas Eve and Day. The first is intended for use with the Gospel from Luke 2 and the second for use with the Gospel from John 1. Here they are in slightly modernized form.
Early Service- O God, You have made this most holy night to shine with the brightness of the true Light: Grant, we beseech You, that as we have known on earth the mysteries of that Light, we may also come to the fullness of His joys in heaven; through Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, ever One God, world without end. AMEN.
Later Service- Almighty God, we humbly ask You to grant, through the new Birth from Your only-begotten Son in the flesh, that we may be set free from the old bondage under the yoke of sin; through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, ever One God, now and for ever. AMEN.
Recent lectionaries provide a number of options for readings depending on the time of day and the number of services offered. Of course, all the Scripture readings are full of truth and meaning, but personally if doing two services, I prefer Luke 2 for the first service and John 1 for the second service. Luke 2 focuses on divine intervention in the humble events associated with the Messiah's Birth. John 1 focuses on the theological meaning of the Word becoming flesh. Of course, we can all benefit from thinking and praying about both perspectives on the Nativity. Both accounts proclaim good news. The humble child in the manger is the divine Word made flesh for our salvation. Glory be to God on high!
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