A New Year

ICYMI, it’s 2026. 

Wednesday night, skies lit up around the world with massive fireworks and drone displays (see some of the highlights). In Times Square, revelers rang in 2026 and kicked off America’s 250th birthday (see the ball drop, then turn red, white, and blue). After rumors of a second New Year’s ball drop circulated, Times Square clarified that Americans would have to wait ‘til Uncle Sam’s actual b-day for the crystal sphere’s second descent. 

Meanwhile, 2026 started on a somber note in Switzerland, where roughly 40 people were killed and 115 were injured in a fire at a ski resort. The blaze ignited around 1:30 a.m. during a crowded New Year’s party at a bar in the resort town of Crans-Montana. The fire’s cause remains unknown, but authorities are not currently investigating it as an attack. 

PRAY WITH US
As we usher in a new year with both rejoicing and mourning, we remember that darkness is real, but it does not win. Join us in praying for the injured and the families of those who lost their lives.

God of peace, comfort those who are mourning. God of healing, help those who are injured. God of wisdom, guide investigators. God of restoration, bring your Kingdom here and renew our hope and joy. Though sorrows persist today, one day we will see mountains low and valleys high, crooked ways made straight, and brokenness restored. Until that day, we hold onto these promises with joy. Make us vessels of hope in a world of fear. Amen.

This prayer is adapted from our new newsletter, Praying the News. Click here to get more reflection and a prayer in your inbox.