As we move towards the season of Lent, starting tomorrow with Ash Wednesday, we focus initially on self-examination and repentance of our faults. Here then is a prayer for Shrove Tuesday that I’ve written for the book I’m currently working on: a prayer for every day of the year plus special occasions in the Christian calendar.
SHROVE TUESDAY
If you, Lord, were to keep an account of our sins, which of us could hold up our head before you? In you, though, is forgiveness, and consequently we worship you.
Psalm 130:3, 4
Should I be tempted, Lord,
guide me.
Should I give in to compromise,
challenge me.
Should I waver,
strengthen me.
Should I be weak,
strengthen me.
Should I founder,
support me.
Should I fall,
restore me.
Should I make excuses,
confront me.
Should I attempt to justify myself,
rebuke me.
Should I deceive myself,
correct me.
Should I follow one mistake with another,
direct me.
Should I wander further still astray,
seek me.
Should I fail you,
forgive me.
Should I flout your will,
pardon me.
Should I ignore you,
have mercy on me.
Whether in Lent, Lord, or at any other time,
help me, whatever I face and however often I let you down,
teach me to trust in your grace that accepts and loves me as I am.
Amen.