A new dawn sermon and prayers

Here is a sample sermon and prayers for a New Dawn service:

Sermon:

Title: "A New Dawn: A Fresh Start"

Text: Psalm 30:5, Isaiah 43:19, 2 Corinthians 5:17

As we gather here today, we are reminded that every day is a new dawn, a fresh start. It's a chance to leave behind the mistakes of yesterday and start anew. But what does it mean to start anew? Is it just a matter of wiping the slate clean and moving on, or is there more to it?

In Psalm 30:5, we read, "Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning." This psalm is a beautiful expression of the human experience. We all go through times of darkness and despair, but God promises that joy will come in the morning. And what is this joy? It's not just a feeling, but a reality that comes from knowing that God is with us, even in the darkest of times.

In Isaiah 43:19, we read, "I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." This verse speaks to the idea that God is always working to make a way for us, even when we feel lost and alone. He is the God who creates paths where there seems to be none, and who brings life-giving water to the driest of places.

And in 2 Corinthians 5:17, we read, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This verse speaks to the idea that when we come to Christ, we are not just forgiven, but we are made new. We are given a fresh start, a new beginning.

So what does it mean to start anew? It means to leave behind the old and embrace the new. It means to let go of the past and move forward with hope and confidence. It means to trust that God is with us, even when we don't see Him. And it means to know that we are new creations in Christ, made to live a life of joy and purpose.

Prayers:

Prayer of Confession:

Dear God, we come before you today with hearts full of gratitude and humility. We acknowledge that we are not perfect, and that we have fallen short of your glory. We confess our sins, both big and small, and ask for your forgiveness. Help us to leave behind the old and start anew, to trust in your goodness and mercy, and to live a life that is pleasing to you. Amen.

Prayer of Thanksgiving:

Dear God, we thank you for the gift of a new dawn, a fresh start. We thank you for the promise of joy that comes in the morning, and for the hope that you give us. We thank you for being our God, our rock, and our salvation. Help us to live today with gratitude and joy, and to trust in your goodness and love. Amen.

Prayer of Intercession:

Dear God, we pray for those who are struggling today, who are feeling lost and alone. We pray that you would bring them hope and comfort, and that you would guide them on their journey. We pray for those who are seeking a fresh start, and for those who are trying to leave behind the old. Help them to trust in your goodness and mercy, and to know that you are always with them. Amen.

Prayer of Blessing:

Dear God, we bless this new dawn, and we ask that you would bless each and every one of us. May we live today with joy and purpose, and may we trust in your goodness and love. May we be a light to those around us, and may we bring glory to your name. Amen.