This prayer of confession originally appeared in "In the Beginning was the Word—Advent 2: The Word and Creation."
Prayer of Confession
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
But we choose to build our own idols of wood, steel, concrete, and to bow down before them.
There is no speech or language where your voice is not heard.
But we choose to see others and to discriminate and to be prejudiced.
The law of the Lord is perfect. His statutes are trustworthy.
But we choose to set our rules and trust our own judgment.
The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart. His commands are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
But we choose to harden our hearts and close our eyes, stumbling in darkness.
By your ordinances, O Lord, is your servant warned.
Help us to discern our errors. Forgive our faults. Keep us from willful sins. Hear our prayer, O Lord. Amen.
—Based on Psalm 19
Revised Common Lectionary
Year A: Season after Pentecost—Proper 22 (27)
Year B: Lent—Third Sunday in Lent
Year B: Season after Pentecost—Proper 19 (24)
Year B: Season after Pentecost—Proper 21 (26)
Year C: Epiphany—Third Sunday after the Epiphany
