Prayer of Confession, P+8A

Call to Confession 

But one is tempted by one’s own desire, being lured and enticed by it; then, when desire has conceived, it engenders sin, and sin, when it is fully grown, gives birth to death. (James 1:14-15) Let us confess our temptation to sin and seek God's mercy:

Prayer of Confession 

Forgive us, God,
for we do not live as your children. 
We do not allow ourselves to be led
by your Spirit,
but we subject ourselves to fear:
fear of the other,
fear of diversity,
fear of not having enough,
fear of new perspectives,
fear of losing power.
Co-heirs with Christ,
we fear that our portion will be less,
we deny that suffering on behalf of our neighbor
is part of the heritage,
and we want to claim only glory.
Have mercy on us, we pray.
Renew a right spirit with us, God, 
and transform our fear 
into courage:
the courage to love,
the courage to trust,
the courage to live by the Spirit
according to your call. 
In Jesus' name we pray,
Amen.

Assurance of God's Grace 

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with which you were marked with a seal for the day of redemption. (Ephesians 4:30) 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.