A Concord Pastor Comments: NIGHT PRAYER: New Year's Eve

It's New Year's Eve, Lord,

in a year that seems much longer

than any year could be...

But last year's candle's burning low

and soon, at midnight, 'twil be time

to light a new one and to pray

you'll light a flame of hope

within our hearts, deep in our souls,

where your Spirit's light burns ever bright

and darkness is unknown...

I'll be glad to see the old year go

yet grateful, Lord, for all the ways

you helped me move from day to day,

through thick and thin,

through sorrow and joy

to this new year's eve

and the promise of tomorrow...

And I remember, too, the times

when somehow I forgot, ignored or missed

that you were right there by my side

and, foolishly,

I tried to make it on my own...

And yet you never failed me, Lord,
you never failed to love me,
to pardon and forgive me:
your grace so sweet and pure
and always freely given...

Today I come with empty hands:
I haven't much to offer
and anything I do have
was first your gift to me...

But there comes a new year now, Lord,
and with it comes my prayer
that I grow worthy of your love,
more faithful to your word...

In this new year, Lord,
day by day,
make me stronger in my faith,
more trusting of your help...

Nurture in my soul
a hunger for the truth,
a thirst for all that's holy,
a desire for your wisdom...

Help me settle for nothing less
than what you offer, Lord:
to heal my soul, mend my heart,
and guide my steps along your path...

It's New Year's Eve Lord,
in a year that seemed so very new
- not all that long ago...