Prayer
“The old has gone, the new has come.”
Dear Lord,
We begin again, Father, for the new has come to us again. The year that we just finished brought happy times and sad. We have new friends and perhaps said goodbye to some we love dearly. Some of us searched in vain for work while others found the job of their dream. Whatever happened last year, it is behind us now. Help us to look toward this day with great expectation, leaving the past behind. For we do not know what each day will bring.
Lead us Lord that we do not fill new calendars full of things to “do.” Be gentle with us when we lose balance between rest and work and fail to receive the gift of Sabbath. Thank you for your many blessings in our lives, especially for listening to all that fills our heart – joys and sorrows, hopes and fear – you know it all.
We come together in this community to share our hearts. While we pray from diverse locations, at different points in life, we share one thing – our deep desire to talk to and hear from you. Come now gracious Lord, hear our prayers, examine our hearts and minds and know the desire of our hearts, all while loving us still. Help us to trust in the knowledge that you want good for us and that our time alone with you brings you joy. Most of all kind creator, help us to forgive others, if we ask your forgiveness, to help those in need whenever possible, and love all of your creation.
Grant us your peace, dear Lord,
Amen.