Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

As we come out of the Holiday season, we begin to catch a glimpse of the coming year, 2014. I can see no better way to begin this new year than in prayer to the One who is granting the year to us. As a church family, we are poised for another exciting year. With God’s help, and a lot of hard work on our part, 2014 will be a wonderful year for PUMC.

A Prayer for the New Year

Almighty God, as we prepare for another year, we pray your blessing on all of our days. Watch over us in all that we do and guide us to be a blessing to others and to your Name. Help us to be gracious to others and honest with ourselves.
At work, help us to be diligent and conscientious, performing our best as if working exclusively for You.
In times of rest, help us to find enjoyment in things that are positive and bring no regrets.
In our families, make us thoughtful and considerate, easing the burdens of others instead of being burdens ourselves.
And in every moment, help us to remember that You, God, are with us, that all we have and all we can do are gifts from You for the sake of your people. Lead us on our path for the coming year, making each day our gift back to You. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.