O sing to the Lord a new song, for God has done marvelous things.
His right hand and his holy arm have gotten him the victory.
God has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises.
Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who live in it.
Let the hills sing together for joy at God's presence on earth.
He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.
—from Ps. 98
OPENING PRAYER
Almighty God, we thank you for the new light that you pour into our lives at Christmastime. May the Baby in the manger fill our hearts with your love, until your Word shines forth in our lives. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
PRAYER FOR THE PAST YEAR
Gracious God, merciful and eternal: as we look back on the year that is past, our hearts swell with gratitude for all the happiness, success, and contentment. But we are also aware of missed opportunities when we might have made a difference in the lives of others. Forgive us and inspire us to be more courageous, more willing to speak and to act.
And when we think of the problems and farewells that 2024 has brought us, we seek refuge in you as we ponder our losses. As we take account of the time you have given us, on the experiences that have shaped our lives we see that it is your hand has been guiding us. Stay with us and keep us in your loving care in the year to come. We pray this in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, God forever and ever. Amen.
COMMUNION PRAYER
O God, you are the Lord of all time and space, the Source from which all life flows. You spoke your word and called light out of darkness. May that same light shine in our hearts as we celebrate your word become flesh. Send your Spirit, we pray you, to settle upon us, that we might truly know the joy of Christ's birth, and on these gifts that we might discern in them his presence. Unite us around this table, that we might rise to serve you by serving our neighbors. We pray this in Christ's Name. Amen.
