Holy and gracious God,
On this Epiphany morning, we gather as people who still seek Your light. Just as the star led wise travelers to Jesus, lead us now into this new year; through all that is to come. Through uncertainty, through joy, through new experiences or new jobs, through hard medical journeys, through the brightest of days and through the darkest of nights. We know that by following you, the light will always shine and pierce the darkest moments.
God of Light, we ask that you shine upon the Church. Spark in us a faith that does not grow weary. Make us courageous to love, bold to welcome, and humble enough to listen. Illuminate the ways we can be a beacon of light in communities that are weary of loneliness, division, and fear. Guide every one of us, that we may offer Your light to all who come seeking.
We continue to pray this morning for nations torn by conflict, for peoples who long for peace, for leaders who hold power shaped by pride or by fear. As the magi crossed borders and defied boundaries, give us hearts that cross lines of culture, politics, and prejudice. May Your justice roll through places where power is abused, where resources are withheld, where people are dismissed or forgotten. Teach us to be peacemakers even in our own homes, in our conversations, and in our communities.
God of Compassion, dwell among those who suffer; those who sit in hospital rooms even today, those waiting for test results, those living with chronic pain, and those who feel invisible in their grief. For the hungry, the unhoused, the unemployed, and those overwhelmed by bills and impossible choices, let Your light break through. Shape us into hands that bring bread, arms that offer shelter, and voices that advocate for dignity for all.
Be near to those beginning new paths; new jobs, new relationships, new diagnoses, new chapters. For those who feel lost or unsure which direction to go, be their guiding star. For children and youth growing into the story of faith, pour out imagination and wonder with all they will learn this year.
And finally, God who receives our gifts, we offer our lives—imperfect though they are—just as the magi brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Use us, transform us, make us radiant with Your love.
We pray in the name of Jesus, the Light no darkness can overcome, and the one who taught us to pray saying….”Our Father….”