Stewardship Prayer

Good and gracious God,

a new year of grace is upon us,
giving us impressions of
crisp beginnings
new goals, a fresh sense of hope
even in these uncertain times.

Though we cling to our own
expectations
for the year ahead,
we know you alone
are the sovereign of our future,
Lord of our lives, and the source
of whatever good we may do.

We thank you, O Lord,
for the gift of the days and weeks
you have entrusted to us.
Teach us to be good stewards
of our time ahead,
that we go about our days
keeping you
at the center of our lives.

In the midst of the current pandemic
and the suffering it brings,
focus our eyes on the needs of others;
help us respond with compassion
to the poor;
and open our hearts
to a suffering world.

We ask for a year of peace,
a year that brings an end
to hatred, polarization,
and the health crisis;
and a year where we find
a deeper joy
that can only be found in you.

We ask this through Christ your Son
who lives and reigns with you
and the Holy Spirit,
God, forever and ever.

Amen