Here’s a prayer of confession inspired by Psalm 51. It was written by Ann Siddall.
Prayer of Confession
(inspired
by Psalm 51)
On this first day of Lent
we pause, look within
and examine our consciousness.
Have
mercy on us, O God,
according
to your steadfast love.
Where we have neglected prayer,
been apathetic in worship,
found reasons to avoid generosity,
or lacked compassion:
Have
mercy on us, O God,
according
to your steadfast love.
Where we have colluded
in the oppression of those
who become invisible in their suffering,
and ignored on the streets:
Have
mercy on us, O God,
according
to your steadfast love.
Where anxiety has eroded
the gift of Your peace, and where
we have cared too much
about what others think:
Have
mercy on us, O God,
according
to your steadfast love.
Words
of assurance
As Lent begins, know that God understands
how we struggle to stay open and compassionate.
The invitation is not to focus on our inadequacies,
but on God’s gift of grace and love
which transforms our hearts and minds.
That gift is given to us again, here and now.
Be encouraged.
Amen.
May the peace of God be with you
and
also with you.
~ written by Ann Siddall, in Lent to Easter liturgies: Year C.
Posted on the website of the Stillpoint
Spirituality Centre. http://stillpoint.unitingchurchsa.org.au/
