Looking back on the year that has passed is a period to reflect on what has passed in the year which is about to end. Looking forward is a time to anticipate with hope for the future. Certain future events may be predicted or known, but many are also unknown – held in the hands of Almighty God to be revealed at the right time.
So, let’s pray:
‘Samuel then took a large stone and placed it between the towns of Mizpah and Jeshanah. He named it Ebenezer (which means “the stone of help”), for he said, “Up to this point the Lord has helped us!” 1 Samuel 7:12 NLT
‘I look behind me and you’re there, then up ahead and you’re there, too— your reassuring presence, coming and going. This is too much, too wonderful— I can’t take it all in!’ Psalm 139:5-6 MSG
Thank you, God, that you know the times and the seasons, the days and the years that have been, and all that is to come. At this time of reflection, we pray that the Royal family would exclaim like the prophet Samuel, ‘up to this point the Lord has helped us!‘ We thank you for all that you have been helped them with – duties, family changes, decisions, staff changes, diary arrangements, travel and so much more. We thank you for the Royal Household and all who have, and continue to, support them to function as a family and institution.
As they ponder on the year that has passed, may the Royal family see your unique handprint of protection, guidance, and encouragement. May they have seen and experienced your reassuring presence during their travels here, there, and everywhere, both privately and publically.
Looking forward, Father God be their Ebenezer- their stone or rock when they need assistance for the tasks in front of them. Thank you that you are already up ahead – preparing the ways, the duties, the meetings of minds, hearts, and discussions. It is wonderful to know that your presence is there as we look forward into the future. May this be the case for the Royal family too.
Thinking of the known diary events, however tentatively planned in the diary brings reassurance as the Royal family looks ahead. However, for the unknown, the unplanned, unexpected and sudden events, big or small, happy or sad, we pray for your hand of preparation. Prepare hearts, minds, events, places, and people, positioning things for these tricky days or moments.
“I [Jesus] am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.’ John 14:27 NLT
Thank you that as we walk into the unknown and that you give us your amazing peace so we don’t have to be afraid. Thank you, Lord Jesus,
Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer for the British Royal Family