As we begin 2021, many of us carry a great deal of hope for change after a hard year, or maybe leftover anxiety from the one passed. Let us begin 2021 with prayer that we would be open to whatever the Lord leads and trust in him for all things. Below, you will find several prayers we found helpful to pray through as we approach this new year and seek to be those who follow in the way of Jesus.
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.
O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.
– Attributed to St. Francis of Assisi
O Lord, give us
wise, self-controlled,
patient, understanding,
devout, faithful,
and courageous hearts.
Fill our souls with
devotion to your service,
and strength against all temptations;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
– Archbishop Laud, 1573
Dearest Lord God, help us
to fear and love you with all our heart,
to glorify you and call on you with all our heart,
to receive and follow your Word with all our heart,
to always seek the good of our neighbors,
to hold on to the true faith
and keep a clear conscience;
through Jesus Christ,
your Son, our Lord.
Amen.
– Attributed to Martin Luther
We wish you a happy new year, full of joy and growth!
