A prayer of hope and purpose for the New Year

 

A prayer of hope and purpose for the new year, from Philippians 3—

Lord God,

I want to know Jesus Christ and his resurrection.

I can’t understand his power or his suffering,

or his perfection and righteousness.

But you know that about me.

You know I can’t handle this world’s problems on my own.

You know I can’t keep perspective on what matters.

It’s why you sent Jesus to us in the first place.

Because I can’t manage on my own,

I cling to the hope that you can and will transform all things.

I will forget what is behind me in this year.

I will reach toward what you have before me in the new year.

I will strain toward the prize of winning Christ,

of choosing hope in my ordinary existence.

I will press on toward the goal of becoming more like your son.

My end of the pursuit is heaven.

May I long to live in your presence,

rather than be fearful of leaving this earth.

Mature me this year.

Transform me this year.

Use me this year.

I am yours.

That is my hope.

Help me fix my mind on eternal, rather than earthly things.

This world is passing away,

but your love and the hope of heaven remain secure.

My citizenship is with you.

Thank you for this year, however difficult it was.

You were present, and you were working.

I love you.

In Jesus’ name, 

Amen.