This is adaped from Come, Lord Jesus: Devotions for the Home (Augsburg Fortress, 1996) and from Sundays and Seasons, (copyright 2012 Augsburg Fortress) -
Bless the home by following an eastern European tradition. A visual blessing may be inscribed with white chalk above the home's main door or entrance. For example,
20 + C M B + 13
The numbers change with each new year. The three letters stand for either the ancient Latin blessing Christe mansionem benedicat, which means, "Christ, bless this house," or the legendary names of the three magi (Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar).
Inscription:
Write in chalk above your entrance: 20 + CMB +13.
The magi of old, known a -
C Caspar
M Melchior, and
B Balthasar
Followed the star of God's Son who came to dwell among us
20 two thousand
13 and thirteen years ago
+ Christ, bless this house
+ and remain with us throughout the new year
Prayer:
O God, you revealed your Son to all people by the shining light of a star. We pray that you bless this home and all who live here with your gracious presence. May your love be our inspiration, your wisdom our guide, your truth our light and your peace our benediction; through Christ our Lord. Amen
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| our front gate
May God's blessings be with you all in 2013.
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