Many people make resolutions on the first day of a new year, but what do you resolve on the first day of a new decade? (Though many herald a new decade when the year number ends in 0, the decade actually begins with the year ending in 1.)

You and I already may have made our resolutions, many of which we will break before the week is out.

I want to consider a different question: What would your prayers be for Christians across the world as we navigate this important transition? Let me share a few of mine.

First, I pray that we as Christians are more determined to live out God's commandments to love God and our neighbor than to make everyone believe exactly the way we do. Second, I pray that Christians include as neighbors every part of God's creation. Third, I pray that Christians would talk less and do more to respond in love to violence, poverty, hunger, homelessness, loneliness, and hurt. Fourth, I pray that Christians look for Christ in cultures and traditions different than their own. This practice may protect us from turning Jesus into an idol who simply mirrors ourselves.

I believe that if we, as followers of Jesus, will follow his example in these ways, we will transform our world into a place where God's love reigns. What are your prayers on this day?