New Year’s Eve Prayer Guide 

“True spirituality frees us to live joyfully in the present. It requires, however, going back to go forward.  This takes us to the very heart of spirituality and discipleship in the family of God – breaking free from the destructive sinful patterns of our pasts to live the life of love God intends.”  

- Pete Scazzero, Emotionally Healthy Spirituality

 

Today, rather than gathering as a church family, we encourage you to join others in our foundry community by taking some time to be with God for quiet reflection today. Take time to BOTH look back at the year that was and look forward to the year that will be.

 To do so, try to create some time where you will be uninterrupted for a period.  Put your phone on do not disturb, and go where you can relax and think clearly.  Be in a place where you feel safe to process emotions that may rise to the surface in your reflection. Grab a piece of paper or a journal, or if you prefer it, be in a place where you can pray out loud.  If you’re able to do so, maybe light a candle as a reminder of God’s presence in your reflection.

 

Because it can feel overwhelming to do this type of exercise …let begin by praying this “Welcome” prayer to God – written by Father Thomas Keating.

 

“Welcome, welcome, welcome.

I welcome everything that comes to me today, because I know it's for my healing.

I welcome all thoughts, feelings, emotions, persons, situations, and conditions.

I let go of my desire for power and control.

I let go of my desire for affection, esteem, approval, and pleasure.

I let go of my desire for survival and security.

I let go of my desire to change any situation, condition, person or myself.

I open to the love and presence of God and God's action within. Amen”

 

From here, here are two reflection exercises you can use for your reflection:

 

OPTION 1 - Jennie Allen publishes a “Dream Guide” that creates space for this type of reflection in various areas of life.

YOU CAN FIND IT HERE - https://www.jennieallen.com/freebies)

 

OPTION 2 – Go through the prompts below, answering as honestly as possible.

4 Questions for the year that was:

  1. What are you thankful for from this past year?

  2. Are there areas of life where you experienced growth that you can celebrate?

  3. What do you need to leave in 2023 – challenges, mistakes, sins, or struggles?

  4. In order to do #3 - Is there anything unconfessed to God or to someone you’ve harmed (intentionally or unintentionally)? Do you need to Seek God’s forgiveness or the forgiveness of someone in order to “walk in the light?”

 

4 questions for the year that will be:

  1. 1  What are the spiritual disciplines you will need to cultivate to keep you connected to God?

  2.  What are the practices of self-care you need to attend to your body and nurture your soul?

  3. What core relationships do you need to support you on your journey? Who are 1-3 people you need to prioritize reaching out to support them in their journey?

  4. What are the gifts, passions, and burdens within you that God wants you to express for the blessing of others?

Take some time in silence to write down or bring to God any other thoughts or concerns that may come to mind.  

Benediction:

May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen.