What thoughts run through your mind as you approach the new year? I wouldn’t be surprised if some of your attention is focused on the past—looking back and remembering both the blessings and challenges of the year behind us. And then, too, there’s probably some focus on the future—looking ahead and making resolutions about the habits you’d like to develop and the goals you’d like to achieve in the coming year.

But even as we ponder all the ways that God has worked—and will work—in our lives, I hope there’s also a part of us that cares about—and wants to pray for—the needs of others as a new year begins. And if our hearts are so inclined, today’s word from Psalm 20 offers a template for the kind of prayer we might want to pray.

“In times of trouble, may the Lord answer your cry,” the psalmist says.
     “May the name of the God of Jacob keep you safe from all harm.
May He send you help from his sanctuary
     and strengthen you from Jerusalem.
May He remember all your gifts
     and look favorably on your offerings.
May He grant your heart’s desires
     and make all your plans succeed.
May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory
     and raise a victory banner in the name of our God.
May the Lord answer all your prayers.” (20:1-5)

That’s my prayer for you today—offered in hope that God will bless us all, so that we can be a blessing to others. Amen.