Pastoral Prayer: Proper 18 C

Here’s a pastoral prayer inspired by two of the suggested scripture readings for Proper 18, Year C:  Jeremiah 18:1-11 and Luke 14:25-33.  It was posted on the Community of Christ website.

Prayer of Confession and Reassurance
(inspired by Jeremiah 18:1-11 and Luke 14:25-33)

God of Covenant and Promise,
we want to be a people of peace, reconciliation,
and healing of the spirit,
yet we know we often fall short of what you would have us to be.
Be patient with us, just as a potter reshapes a vessel.

You call us to reflect your grace and generosity,
yet we know we often fail to live up to our call as disciples.
Help us see with fresh eyes your image in each one we meet.

We recognize, O God,
you blessed each one with skills, talents, abilities,
and opportunities to minister.
Help us to use our gifts for service and ministry
in our congregation, our neighborhood, and city…
and wherever we have opportunity.

And now, O God,
through the power of the Holy Spirit,
we are assured of your great love for us
and renew our commitment to follow Jesus, the Christ. Amen.

~ posted on the Community of Christ website. http://www.cofchrist.org/worship12-13/13-09-08.asp