A Hymn for the New Year

At this time of year, we often take stock of our lives and attempt to make a fresh start. It is a time of promise and promises, to ourselves and others, wherein we seek to erase past failures and dedicate ourselves to future success. It is, sadly, too often a celebration of human resolve rather than trust in God. Perhaps we rely too much on our own strength, which may explain why we have to go through the process again each January.

Francis Ridley Havergal (1836-1879) was not a robust person physically, but she possessed a vibrant faith in God that motivated and strengthened her for a life of service. Her health was so delicate that, despite her obvious intellectual abilities, Francis was not allowed to pursue rigorous studies. She did, however, compose numerous poems and hymns, edit several collections of her own works and those of her father, while actively engaging in philanthropic work. She lived a relatively brief life, but left an indelible impression on the church through such hymns as “Take My Life and Let it Be Consecrated,” “Lord, Speak to Me, that I May Speak,” “Like a River Glorious,” “Who is on the Lord’s Side?” and the hymn appropriate for this month, “Another Year is Dawning.” This text, which can be sung to the tune AURELIA (“The Church’s One Foundation”), goes well beyond the often casual and disposable resolutions we make each year, calling us instead to lives surrendered to Christ while we wait for the coming of his kingdom. As such, it is also a fitting testimony to Francis’s own commitment to her Savior.

Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be
In working or in waiting, another year with Thee.
Another year of progress, another year of praise,
Another year of proving Thy presence all the days.

Another year of mercies, of faithfulness and grace,
Another year of gladness in the shining of Thy face;
Another year of leaning upon Thy loving breast;
Another year of trusting, of quiet, happy rest.

Another year of service, of witness for Thy love,
Another year of training for holier work above.
Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be
On earth, or else in Heaven, another year for Thee.