Epiphany’s promise

A litany for worship, on the occasion of a new (Gregorian calendar) year

by Ken Sehested

Join with me—if you dare—in making these resolutions for the coming year:

In all seasons and conditions, transform lives to magnify the rule of Mercy,

In ways that conform to Your extravagant and redemptive purposes;

In our hopes and promises, in our joys and our sorrows,

Whether rising or resting, at home or away;

At work and at play, with those near and dear but also with strangers.

In an age ruled by terror—both by state and by sect—place on our lips the subversive claim of Epiphany’s Promise.

Give us the courage to live at odds with the rage of this age.

Inspire in us a thirst for beauty and for truth.

Teach us to track the signs of your Spirit moving in odd ways, in unbeknown places, and among the least likely.

As with the ancient Magi, give us the grace to cross national boundaries, racial borders, religious barriers and cultural brinks.

Bless these resolutions made today in response to your beckoning, and make us ever more faithful, day by passing day.    Amen.

©ken sehested @ prayerandpolitiks.org