Gracious God,

2021 was a tough year.  Expectations were high for a better year than 2020. Many were thankful to see 2021 come to an end and a new year begin.

2022 is off to a rough start.

We are still in a Pandemic.
We are still cautious and separated.
We are tired and fatigued.
We are fatigued by the chaos on the national and global stage.

We anxiously await for the time when the darkness of the last two years lifts, and the world appears a little brighter.

God of endless light, you sent a star- rising from darkness, guiding seekers and sages, overwhelming us with joy. Let that radiance of your light grow so that our world is less gray and bleak. Let your light fill our cloudy days of winter so we are warmed with the knowledge that spring is not far away.

Faithful God, you have appointed us your witnesses, to be the light that shines in a weary world. Let us not hide the bright hope you have given us, but tell everyone of your love and hope and light.

In Jesus name. Amen.