Here’s a prayer of confession by Moira Laidlaw, suitable for use on the third Sunday of Advent, Year B (December 11, 2011).
Prayer of Confession
We give thanks, O God, that you are unchanging, that your concern for justice and righteousness was so strong that you came in human form to share that concern with us in person. We confess that all too often we hesitate to speak or act when we see people being treated unjustly. Forgive us, O God, for the times when we have been happy to hear the gospel without truly living it. Forgive us for uncaring attitudes when we base our opinion of another person's worth on what they own, or how they look; on what they say, or how they live, rather than accepting them for who they are—people made in your image. Forgive us when our longing to live simply and with humility is defeated by selfish desires—for pursuing profits before seeking your will. Forgive us for placing our hope in other than the Christ-child born in a poor stable. Our hope lies in the promise of your mercy, O God, extending to those who fear you from generation to generation. Heal, restore and bless us, we pray, for the sake of Jesus Christ our Saviour and Lord. Amen
Assurance of Pardon
Assurance of Pardon
May the God of peace cleanse you through and through. The promise is that our whole being—spirit, soul and body will be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thess. 5:23) Rejoice, then, and give thanks as we receive forgiveness and healing in Christ's name. Amen.
— Copyright © Moira Laidlaw, posted on her Liturgies Online website. Visit that site for other great lectionary-based resources.
