Confession: Mark 10: 35-45


Here’s a prayer of confession inspired by Mark 10:35-45.  It was written by Moira Laidlaw.

 

Prayer of Confession

(inspired by Mark 10:35-45)


Jesus said to his disciples and says to us that lording it over others is unacceptable and that “...whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be the slave of all.  For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.”  Jesus, Friend and Saviour,  we confess that all too often we find pleasure in lording it over others—even here in church—and we need to hear you speak these words about the true meaning of greatness directly to us.  


Unclog our ears and tenderise our hearts

so that your words enliven our discipleship;

so that we put the needs of others before our own needs; 
s
o that we share what we have rather than hoarding it for ourselves,
and use our gifts to benefit others

rather than increasing our own status and position.


Pause for silent reflection


Lord Jesus Christ,

keep reminding us that following you

means emptying ourselves of all self-serving power

and filling ourselves with the desire to serve others as willingly as you did.
Forgive any reluctance on our part to follow your example; 
replace any selfish power-plays of ours with your inclusive love, 
your compassion and your humility.

 
These prayers we offer in your name and for your sake.  Amen

 

~ written by Moira Laidlaw, and posted on Liturgies Online. http://www.liturgiesonline.com.au/