This final post for 2023 has an intriguing title, something to chew on, and features a prayer of reflection by Tim Watson for the end of a day … or year …
Reflection at the end of a day
In the silence
we hold before God the day now passing into history
and we give thanks
silence
Lord, for this day
we give you thanks.
Lord, for the moments when we encountered grace and beauty
we give you thanks.
Lord, for conversations that have made an impact on our lives
we give you thanks.
Lord, for the times when we have seen you at work
we give you thanks.
In the silence we hold before God the hurts of the past day
silence
Lord, we remember the times
when we have not shown love
through our thoughts, words and actions.
We seek forgiveness.
Lord, we remember the times
when we have been hurt by the words and actions of others.
Help us to forgive.
Lord, we remember the times
when we have been distracted from seeking after you.
Lord, make yourself known to us,
help us to see you
in the midst of the noise and clamour of this world
In the silence we hold before God tomorrow
and the opportunities it bears
silence
Lord, we pray that your Holy Spirit would guide us
into the ways of righteousness
that you would give us strength for the journey.
Lord, you know the shape of our lives at this time,
you know the delights we enjoy and the pressures we endure.
Guide us and give us wisdom to know your will,
strengthen our resolve to discern your call.
Lord, make yourself known to us in the daily pattern of our lives.
Help us to see the fruit borne out of small actions.
Lord, help us to live faithfully amidst uncertainty.
Fortify us to be followers in your Way.
Lord, help us to not live as autonomous units,
but as fellow travellers on a journey.
Lord, build up the community of which we are part,
and shape it around the cross of your Son Jesus Christ.
Lord, as we sleep tonight,
may we rest in the knowledge of your relentless love.
When we wake tomorrow,
may we be prepared for all that lies ahead.
~ written by Tim Watson, posted on Lighting Beacons Liturgy.
From the blog
Pause for breath …
3 Prayers for endings and beginnings
People of the way