Dear Zion Church family and friends,
Each January, like many of you, I spend some time reviewing the past year and thanking and praising God for the many blessings. It is easier sometimes to remember the challenges or the difficult times. But when we look through the eyes of faith, we see God there as well. I encourage you to reflect and let the words of the beautiful hymn Praise to the Lord, the Almighty guide your prayers.
1 Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise him, for he is your health and salvation!
Let all who hear now to his temple draw near,
joining in glad adoration!
2 Praise to the Lord, who o'er all things is wondrously reigning
and, as on wings of an eagle, uplifting, sustaining.
Have you not seen all that is needful has been
sent by his gracious ordaining?
3 Praise to the Lord, who will prosper your work and defend you;
surely his goodness and mercy shall daily attend you.
Ponder anew what the Almighty can do
if with his love he befriend you.
4 Praise to the Lord! Oh, let all that is in me adore him!
All that has life and breath, come now with praises before him!
Let the amen sound from his people again.
Gladly forever adore him!
Text: Joachim Neander, 1650-1680; tr. Catherine Winkworth, 1827-1878, alt.
A prayer for a fresh start
Lord, thank you for another year of life and all that you provided for us last year. We lay before you all the disappointments and unfinished work, and we ask for your mercy, peace, and joy as we move into this new year. May we delight in the gift of your presence as we discern the journey you have for us.