Liturgy
O God,
in this season of Lent,
we trust in your power,
even as it is often found in weakness;
in your wisdom,
even as it is expressed in seeming foolishness;
in your wholeness,
even as it comes to us amid brokenness.
We do not ask this day for
displays of strength, exercises of intellectual prowess,
or manifestations of miracles.
We come only to worship you.
Be with us this day, O Lord, sinners that we are,
that we might become your saints, your body,
your children, your church.
For this community of your Spirit is built not upon our
own abilities, knowledge, or restorative skill, but upon you,
in Jesus Christ, whom you gave up for all of humanity.
We thank you and pray in the name of the Father,
of the Son
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Congregational Prayer
In prayer, let us confess to God as a community.
O Lord of Grace,
The world is before us today,
and we are weak and fearful,
but we look to you for strength;
If we venture forth alone we stumble and fall,
but on the Beloved’s arms we are held firm.
If we were left to our own treacherous hearts,
we would bring shame to your name,
But if guided and upheld by your Spirit,
We will bring you glory.
Lord of mercy, be the arm that supports us,
our strength to stand,
our light to see,
our shield to protect,
and our sword to repel the enemy.
We know that all loving-kindness is in your Son,
and we plead his blood to pay our debts.
By the power of your holy spirit,
accept his worthiness for our unworthiness,
his sinlessness for our sin,
his purity for our uncleanliness,
his humility for our pride,
his obedience for our rebellion,
his glory for our shame,
his death for our lives.
We pray to our God in community, holy in One.
Amen.
Reflection
What are some things you need to give up for Lent this season?
What are some areas of your life that require change?
Benediction
In this world of dark corners,
may God light your way forward.
In this world of petty grudges,
may Christ increase your love abundantly.
In this world of stifling deceit,
may the Spirit breathe life deep into your soul
that you may exhale truth
and grace and hope into this world
in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
— by Michael Hsu
Go in peace and live the church.
See you throughout the week.
[Photo by tuesdy.is.shutterbot @ Flickr]