Call to Confession: 

As we enter into a time of confession together, let’s prepare our hearts by hearing these words from Psalm 37:

The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom,

    and his tongue speaks justice.

The law of his God is in his heart;

    his steps do not slip.

The wicked watches for the righteous

    and seeks to put him to death.

The Lord will not abandon him to his power

    or let him be condemned when he is brought to trial.

Wait for the Lord and keep his way,

    and he will exalt you to inherit the land;

    you will look on when the wicked are cut off.

Prayer of Confession: 

Righteous Heavenly Father,

We confess that we are often frustrated by the evil we see in ourselves and others. In our sin and weakness, we find it difficult to trust you and to act kindly. Instead, we hold onto rage and fear, imagining ways to get even with those who sin against us. Father, forgive us.

Lord, remind us that you are a strong and good God, and that you love to save and protect your people. Help us to trust in you and keep our eyes trained on you, that we might be freed up to love others in their weakness, just as you do. Holy Spirit, we cannot do this without your guidance, grant us hearts that lean toward grace and gratitude. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.  

Assurance of Pardon: 

In the scriptures we find assurances of our forgiveness and encouragement in our walk. So hear these words from Titus 3 and rest in their truth for us…

But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,  he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,  whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior…