A benediction for the New Year
The old year folds its weary wings
And drifts into the dusk of time,
Its laughter, tears, forgotten things
Now gathered in God’s hands sublime.
A new year dawns with trembling light,
A tender flame of hope reborn;
The Lord who shaped the stars above,
Who knows each breath before it’s drawn,
Now crowns the year with steadfast love
And clothes with mercy every dawn.
Though paths ahead seem dark, obscure,
Still You illuminate each place.
For not a moment lies unknown,
Not one small sorrow hid from You;
Our trembling futures are Your own—
Your promises forever true.
Let weary spirits rise anew,
Let every burden be released;
The brokenhearted You restore,
The wanderer finds a resting place;
The humble soul You bless with more
Than all the world could ever trace.
Let this year begin with praise,
With grateful hearts and lifted hands;
Teach us to number well our hours,
To seek Your wisdom, not our own;.
Lord, guide the dreams we dare to name,
And order every hope we hold;
Let forgiveness shape our deepest ties,
Let truth shine clear before our eyes
And light the paths we have yet to tread.
And when the midnight bells have rung,
And all the world begins again,
Let praise be first upon our tongue,
And trust be firm where fears have been.
In You alone we stand made strong:
Bless us, Lord, through this new year.
Columban Missionary