Merciful Father,
Draw us to you by your grace and in faith, and fill each of our hearts with gratitude. Gratitude for the unconditional love and the new life we receive in Christ. Gratitude for this fellowship you have called us into. Turn us to you in thanks and praise for the opportunity to see the everyday wonders of creation and your work in our lives.
Lord, as we walk forward in life, cause us to pause and look backward in faith. Have us look backward to see and know that you are faithful, even when we are unfaithful. Have us look backward to your promise fulfilled in Christ on the cross, and in His empty tomb.
And, Lord, as we walk, have us look forward in hope. Hope in the truth that you know your plans for us. Hope and certainty in the resurrection life we possess on account of Christ, even as we struggle with the uncertainties of this world. Hope and faith in Christ, and His merciful and gracious work in and for His beloved creation and children. Hope and faith in His promise that He is with us always.
King Jesus, the Word made flesh, be the Christ for us. Draw us to your Word. By your Holy Spirit, guide us by your Word and transform us through your Word. Continue to be the lamp unto our feet, and the light unto our path. May the world know we are Christians by our love. May they know we are Christians by our mercy. May they know we are Christians by your forgiveness which we are called to pour out to others. May they know we are Christians by our hope in you.
In the name of Jesus Christ, the author of life, the author of new seasons, the King of this world and the new world to come.
AMEN.