ash wednesday prayer of confession

Holy and Healing God, we confess our fear—at bearing our souls, uncovering our wounds, pouring out our hearts, naming our shortcomings, and being seen for all we are, and all we do. We confess our reluctance—to set aside disappointments, find release for our anger, let go of deep hurts, and feel forgiven for failings.

When we give into easy apathy or frenzied fear, fuel in us passion, born of hope. When we are motivated by private ambition or greed, stir in us the commitment to be beloved community, to share and to serve. When we squander your bounty and take creation for granted, remind us we are all one, and the earth belongs to you, and we are called to tread lightly and care tenderly. When we dream of greatness and glory, shift our gaze to the last, the least and the lost. When we believe perfection will save us, reveal your sacred spirit at work in our cracks and broken places, and coax healing from our hurt. When we are paralyzed by guilt and failure, free us as your forgiven people.

Break our bondage. Receive our confession. Renew our hope. Restore our potential to live as signs of your Resurrection Power.

Holy and Healing God, in the midst of our fear and reluctance, help us remember your promise—You will find us. And forgive us. And free us. And love us. Without exception. Because you are God, and we are your beautiful, broken, beloved people.

May it be so. Amen, and amen.

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