As Another Year Comes To a Close..

Dear Friends,

Here’s a prayer I found and then edited. Edit it more, if you wish, and use it as 2013 slips away:

Gracious God, father and mother of us all,

We thank you for the year that’s behind us and the year that lies ahead.

Throughout the coming year, help us to fret less and laugh more. Let us take time to teach our children to laugh and love, by laughing and loving with them.

Help us to hear your love song in every sunrise, in the chirping of sparrows in our backyards, in the stories of our old folks and the fantasies of our children.

Thank you for new chances every day and second chances when we need them.

We pray for peace, light and hope for ourselves, and that we might spread these gifts to others.

Forgive us for falling short this year that is passing.

We leave the irreparable past in your hands,

and  step out into the unknown new year  knowing you will go with us.

We rejoice that Jesus the Word Incarnate is with us.

We promise to follow the star.

We embrace the cross and the Risen One.

May You Spirit be welcome in our world of violence and greed.

In the year about to unfold, may we know when to say  Yes! No! Welcome! Enough!

Amen!  Amen!