Almighty and Everlasting God, you hate nothing that you have made and forgive the sins of all those who will turn away from them. Create and make in us new and apologetic hearts, that, mournful of our sins and acknowledging our misery, we may receive from you, the God of all mercy, perfect forgiveness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
As we embark on our journey through Lent as individuals, and in community, we lift before you the brokenness in our lives, and in this, your world. We remember those who are suffering due to weather, suffering because of the isolation, suffering because of illness, suffering because of grief, suffering because of war and terror.
Change our hearts, O God.
May our transformation this season be lifegiving and thorough. May we wash ourselves inside and out, cleaning not only the outside, but our inner lives as well.
Gracious One, we know your desire for us is true transformation not just empty promises but justice, kindness, mercy, and humility.
Help us to choose the work to which you call us:
saving people from oppression…
feeding the hungry…
providing shelter for the homeless…
clothing the naked…
ceasing to place blame on others…
quieting our evil speech…
putting an end to war and violence…
This is not easy work. These are lofty tasks. There is no way for any one of us to solve any of these problems on our own. So, we learn to rely on you, O God, and to rely on our fellow travelers through life.
We lift our eyes up to you, Great Shepherd, knowing that it if from you our help comes. Empower us to do your will and your work in this your world, we pray.
Amen.
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