First Sunday in Lent year C
Almighty God, whose mighty hand delivered our ancestors from the slavery of Egypt, whose power destroyed evil with fire and flood, and whose loving kindness gave us salvation through Jesus Christ, guide us now through the perils and chaos of the world. Help us to discern the good from the evil and resist the temptations that would have us follow a path away from your loving care. For you alone, hear our pleas and petitions, you alone protect us from selfish desires, you alone direct us on the right path.
We have ventured to the mountaintop and seen first hand your glory, O God. For a brief moment we reflected your radiance as we were awed by your willingness to give us audience. Had we stayed on the mountaintop we would have worshipped you and praised you and lived righteous lives. But we have been given a mission that can’t be done in isolation. We are weak, Father. We walked off that mountain feeling really pious, back into a world of temptation and fell on our asses (faces) tripped on our own egos.
We confess our desire to shape the world to our own advantage. We are more concerned with what we eat than with those who have nothing to eat. We often place our first fruits on our own table before we offer them to honor you. We are concerned with the latest fashion but not those who shiver against the cold. Can we even call ourselves Christians when we keep you at a distance until we need you?
Our ways are not working. Guide us to your prefect will. O God, turn us around and reset our priorities so we can truly worship you through our service to your children and the world. Help us understand that our needs are in your capable hands and you will provide the strength, courage and wisdom to serve you, if we only consult you first.
In Jesus name, we claim our prayers for this congregation as answered. Those in need will be healed in mind, body and spirit; none will go hungry, all will find fulfillment of purpose and peace. To your glory, we pray. Amen.
My Spirit Soars 