Here’s a prayer for the first Sunday of the New Year, taken from the second of my many books, written way back in 1998, titled Prayers for All Seasons (Book 1). You may find it helpful should you be leading an act of worship this week, or if you’re simply seeking something for your daily devotions.
New Year praise and petition
Living God,
on this first Sunday of another year we come to praise you,
conscious that you have watched over us in the months gone by.
You have blessed us in so much that is past,
teach us to trust you for the future.
We praise you for the countless ways
we have experienced your love –
the faith you have nurtured,
the strength you have given,
the guidance you have offered.
You have blessed us in so much that is past,
teach us to trust you for the future.
We praise you for the fun we have enjoyed,
the fellowship we have shared,
the encouragement we have given and received.
You have blessed us in so much that is past,
teach us to trust you for the future.
We thank you for the ventures we have begun,
the successes we have achieved,
and the dreams we still have.
You have blessed us in so much that is past,
teach us to trust you for the future.
Living God,
You have always been by our sides,
your love constantly surrounding us,
your hand supporting us
whatever we have been called to face.
You have blessed us in so much that is past,
teach us to trust you for the future.
Grant now your blessing on the days ahead.
Help us to make the most of the opportunities that lie before us,
to live each day to the full,
and to stay faithful to you through good and bad,
serving Christ in all we say and do.
You have blessed us in so much that is past,
teach us to trust you for the future,
for in his name we pray.
Amen.