Confession Prayer Week of March 9, 2025

Call to Confession: 

As we enter into a time of confession together, let’s prepare our hearts by hearing these words from Matthew 6:

“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.  But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Prayer of Confession: 

Holy Father,

We confess how little we mourn over our sin. Many of us do not fast because we are more concerned with our own comfort and pleasure. We have forgotten the feast that will be laid before us in heaven and have tried to fill our inner hunger with the things of this world.

Lord, forgive us. Help us to turn from the profound grip that this world has over us. Thank you that Jesus was not like us. His prayers, actions, service, and faithfulness always came from a heart focused on you. Holy Spirit, lead us to a devotion like Jesus. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon: 

In the scriptures we find assurances of our forgiveness and encouragement in our walk. So hear these words from Matthew 11 and rest in their truth for us:

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.