Confession: John 17

Here’s a prayer of confession inspired by Jesus’ prayer in John 17.  It comes from the website of the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Prayer of Confession
(inspired by John 17)

Forgive us, O God,
when we treat people as though they are just a nuisance.
when we are annoyed with others’ behaviour
when people unexpectedly assert themselves
when we find it difficult to include those who think or act
differently from the norm
when we are cruel in our judgements or exclusion

Forgive us, O God, when we do not hear or heed Jesus’ prayer for unity
We pray for all who exploit their workers for profit.
We pray for all those who experience exploitation and feel their helplessness.
Open our eyes to any ways in which we can encourage justice.

~ from the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand website.