God of Creation,

In this new year we pray that optimism and hope springs forth from winter’s quiet evenings.

We look forward to the laughter of children that is to come on our grounds this year. We look forward to fellowship, discipleship, simplicity, and community.

We pray for Your guidance as we endeavor on new efforts and navigate change.

We also understand the truth written by Meister Eckhart long ago: “God is not found in the soul by adding anything but by subtracting.” May we all find You in a distractible world by taking the time to subtract – distractions, egos, and all that stands in the way of knowing and loving You, and knowing and loving our neighbors on Your earth.

We seek to serve You and to serve others well.

And we pray for all those who come into contact with our ministry this year. May they see You in our work and in our hearts. Amen.