Prayer of Confession, P+23C

Call to Confession 

Jesus answered them, “Beware that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Messiah!’[a] and they will lead many astray. (Matthew 24:4-5) Let us confess our propensity to idol worship and seek God's mercy:

Prayer of Confession

Forgive us, God.
We focus on the beauty of our temples
instead of the wonder of your sacrifice.
We focus on the charisma of false leaders
instead of the humble servitude of Jesus.
We barter in fear and use it to secure our own desires
instead of trusting in your promises
and proclaiming the Good News of the Gospel.
We have not been willing to sacrifice our very selves
as Jesus did by his example
in order to declare your Word
and protect your people.
Hear our pleas for mercy, God.
Hear our repentant cries.
Save us from ourselves, we pray!
Transform us in prayerful service,
and lead us in through these trying times
into the hope that comes through life in Christ.

Assurance of God's Grace

But the one who endures to the end will be saved. (Matthew 24:13) And indeed, have already been saved by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ who endured to death and then overcame even death by the hand of God who raised him from the dead and seated him at God's right hand. 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.