Prayer of Confession, P+21C

Call to Confession 

“Righteousness is on your side, O Lord, but open shame, as at this day, falls on us, ... because of the treachery that (we) have committed against you." (Daniel 9:7) Let us confess  the treachery that we have committed against God and seek God's mercy:

Prayer of Confession

Forgive us, God!
You said, "Love your neighbor,"
and we took away their health insurance.
You said, "Welcome the stranger,"
and we applauded ICE when they arrested them
and took them away 
without due process.
You said, "Feed the hungry,"
and we did nothing when half the House
stayed home
instead of negotiating a budget
that would protect those in need.
You said, "Love as I have loved you,"
and we chose to practice judgment
and xenophobia
and apathy.
You said, "What you did to the least of these
you have done unto me."
Forgive us, God,
for we have failed you
in every possible way.
Your own children have chosen 
to hurt our siblings in Christ
in your name
and we congratulate ourselves
for our evil acts;
we justify them in our self-righteousness.
Lord, in your mercy, give us understanding.
Hold a mirror in front of us, 
so that we can see what we have done
and are doing.
We deserve your wrath, O God.
Yet you love us beyond our capacity to comprehend.
Teach us how to love in the same unconditional way.

Assurance of God's Grace

And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. (John 17:3) Hear the Good News: In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! Thanks be to God!

Since God has forgiven us in Christ, let us also forgive one another. 
The peace of Christ be with you.
Please extend the peace of Christ to all whom you encounter this week.