PRAYER

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We stand at that place, betwixt and between the old and the new.

Looking back to a year now past, and forward to what is yet to be.

But this is not a normal transition between old and new.

We look back on a year in which

the normal patterns of daily life have been disrupted;

where so much has been put on hold, postponed, cancelled.

We look to the new year with dread and anxiety

with its continued uncertainty.

Lives still on hold.

So much we would want to do, would plan to do,

need to do, but afraid to look too far forward for

fear of disappointment.

In all our uncertainty

we come to you, Lord, for you are constant.

In the midst of uncertainty your love is sure.

In the darkness of disappointment you never fail.

In heartbreak and anguish your loving arms enfold us.

We see your constancy and love not only in our lives

but in the world around us.

As year succeeds to year,

as day follows night,

as the seasons change,

from the new life of spring,

to summer’s rosy glow,

then autumn’s harvest hew

to winter’s sleepy rest.

Lord, we long for the world to awaken

not only from winter’s rest

but also from the shutdown we have endured

for so many months.

As we wait expectantly for the brighter days of spring,

and for the world to live again

so we turn to you.

Continue to walk with us through these dark days,

assure us of your light which

no darkness can ever overcome

and of your love

by which we are constantly surrounded.

Amen.

This article appears in the January 2021 Issue of Life and Work

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