PRAYER

Lord, we have sung of the bleak midwinter,

And of how out of darkness we have light.

The familiar words of the familiar carols.

Words of joy, of peace, of love, of light.

Of how you bring light and life to all.

We are in that time of year.

The time of darkness.

Of short days and long nights

When we are assaulted by darkness

And we long for light.

We are in that time of year

The time of looking back

As we think of the year that has passed

Remembering all we have been through

Giving thanks for your presence with us

In all the trials and anxiety we have faced.

We are in that time of year

The time of looking forward

As we look towards the year

That will unfold before us.

Make plans for the year ahead.

Get excited at all the possibilities it holds.

Lord, at this time of year be light for our lives

In these dark days

Bring us the hope of your inextinguishable light

May we go forward in faith

Supported by the joy, peace, love and light

Which only you can bring us.

Be with us in all this year holds

The known and unknown

The planned and unplanned

The joy and the sorrow

The hope and the anxiety

And may we walk always with the One who is

Light for the World.

Amen.

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