Pastoral Prayer for February 20, 2022

Loving God,

We confess today our tendency to wander,

to fall back on the same old patterns

even when they bring the same old harm.

May we find comfort in remembering that you were also tempted.

You know what it’s like to have paraded before you

all the glittering alternatives that lead to gloom and disappointment in the end.

You were faithful.

Help us to be faithful too.

May we find strength in knowing that you are with us

in our times of testing.

Throughout this week, draw us to you in mind and heart.

May we thrive in the simple joy of your presence –

listening for your leading,

remembering your goodness,

turning away again and again from roads to nowhere

When we are powerless, raise us up.

Give us strength and hope.

We ask these things in the name of Jesus.

Amen.