For the New Year

O Lord,
Length of days does not profit me except the days are passed in your presence, in your service, to your glory.
Give me a grace that precedes, follows, guides, sustains, sanctifies, aids every hour,
that I may not be one moment apart from you,
but may rely on your Spirit
to supply every thought,
speak in every word,
direct every step,
prosper every work,
build up every mote of faith,
and give me a desire
to show forth your praise,
testify your love,
advance your kingdom.
I launch my bark on the unknown waters of this year,
with you, O Father, as my harbour,
you, O Son, at my helm,
you, O Holy Spirit, filling my sails.

~adapted from Valley of Vision, Arthur Bennett, ed.
(for New Year’s)