This liturgy of confession, assurance, and dedication originally appeared in "A Classic TULIP Bouquet—Week 4: Irresistible Grace."
We Are Reconciled to God
Call to Confession
Remember that our Lord Jesus can sympathize with us in our weaknesses, since in every respect he was tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with boldness approach the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Sung Response
“Mayenziwe/Your Will Be Done” Bell (sung in Zulu by the choir)
Prayer of Confession
God in heaven, you have helped my life grow like a tree. Now something has happened. Satan, like a bird, has carried in one twig of his own choosing after another. Before I knew it, he had built a dwelling place and was living in it. Today, my Father, I am throwing out both the bird and the nest.
—Anon. Nigerian, The Oxford Book of Prayer, George Appleton, editor.
Sung Response
“Mayenziwe/Your Will Be Done” Bell (sung in English by congregation)
Assurance of Pardon
Anyone who is in Christ is a new creation. The old life has gone; a new life has begun.
—2 Corinthians 5:17
Know that you are forgiven and be at peace.
Amen.
Sung Response
“Mayenziwe/Your Will Be Done” Bell (sung by congregation)
Prayer of Dedication
Let the healing grace of your love, O Lord, so transform us that we may play our part in the transfiguration of the world from a place of suffering, death, and corruption to a realm of infinite light, joy, and love. Make us so obedient to your Spirit that our lives may become a living prayer and a witness to your unfailing presence.
—Mary Hulst © 2002 Reformed Worship.org CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
