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The Closing Year, A Christ-Centered Poem of Reflection
The Closing Year poem inspires reflection, resolutions, and a Christ-centered life.
The Closing Year is a powerful poem that invites reflection as we approach the end of a year. It speaks to the desire to live with purpose, embracing kindness, love, and Christ’s example. With each verse, the poet challenges us to consider the work we’ve done and the opportunities we’ve missed, urging us to take action and do better in the coming year. This poem encourages us to focus on living a Christ-centered life, helping others, and walking faithfully in God's path. Let it inspire you as you reflect on the past year and set your intentions for the year ahead.
Updated August 13, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
The Closing Year
Poet: Unknown
How soon the year has passed away!
How soon its race was run!
And of the work I planned to do,
How little has been done!
I vowed to more of kindness show
To those who were in need;
To help the fallen, save the lost,
And sow the precious seed;
To soothe the sorrow, dry the tear,
And others' burdens bear;
To be more Christlike every day,
And in his work to share;
To live more pure in mind and thought,
And evil habits shun;
To be more careful of my words,
And kind to every one.
But as I look back o'er the past
And view the things I've done,
The very work I planned to do
Has only been begun.
On every side were open doors
I might have entered in;
On every hand were sinful hearts
I had the power to win;
On every side were saddened hearts
And heads bowed down with woe,
Where dearest joys had fled away
To these I did not go;
And when some hard and crushing blow
The trusting heart had broken,
A kindly word would heal the wound
That word was never spoken.
Shall I go on through all the years
And all these duties shirk?
Shall I presume upon His love
And fail to do His work?
Can I expect to wear a crown
And join the blood-washed throng?
Shall I, with saints and angels, join
To sing redemption's song?
No; I must bravely take my cross
And do His work in love,
Assured if I will do my part,
I'll share his joy above.
Lord, give to me thy grace divine,
That through each coming day,
My feet may ever keep the path
That leads the upward way.
Key Messages From This Poem
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Reflect on opportunities we may have missed
The poet looks back and realizes that many good intentions were left unfinished. There were opportunities to show kindness, help others, and live more like Christ. The message reminds us that reflection is not meant to leave us with regret, but to help us recognize where we can do better in the days ahead.
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Do not overlook opportunities to show kindness
Throughout life, we are given many opportunities to encourage and care for others. Sometimes something as simple as a kind word can bring comfort to someone carrying a heavy burden. The poem encourages us to notice these opportunities and respond with love rather than letting them pass us by.
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Trust God as you begin again
Although the poet recognizes past shortcomings, the poem ends with renewed faith and determination. Rather than giving up, the poet asks for God's grace and guidance for the days ahead. It is an encouraging reminder that with God's help, we can begin again and continue walking the path He has set before us.
Popular Pages
As you reflect on the closing year and look toward a new beginning, these popular pages offer more poems, prayers, and encouraging words centered on faith, hope, and God's guidance.
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Find faith and encouragement in these Religious New Years Poems as you reflect on the past and look forward with hope.
A New Year's Surrender Poem encourages us to place the coming year in God's hands and trust Him with what lies ahead.
Conclusion
As we come to the end of the year, The Closing Year reminds us that every day is a gift from God. Its message calls us to pause, reflect, and step forward with renewed purpose. Even when we fall short, God’s grace meets us and guides us. Let this poem inspire you to walk closer with Christ in the year ahead, choosing kindness, offering help, and following the path He sets before you. With His strength, each new day becomes a chance to grow, to serve, and to shine His love in all you do.
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