Here’s a prayer of confession followed a declaration of forgiveness based on the transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:1-8, Mark 9:2-9, Luke 9:28-36). It was written by Rev. Dr. David Bahr.
Confession
(Matthew 17:1-8, Mark 9:2-9, Luke 9:28-36)
Call to Confession
One: Peter, James, and John went up on the side of a mountain with Jesus
and experienced glory.
But then Peter wanted to stay. “It’s good for us to be here.
Let’s get comfortable.”
We are also often tempted
to keep the experience of the Divine to ourselves,
to enjoy the company of the saints
instead of going back down the mountain
to continue the work of the Kingdom of God.
God knows this temptation of our hearts, so let us confess
and pray for forgiveness.
All: God of glory and light, forgive us when we are
complacent and comfortable
with keeping the riches of your love to ourselves.
Keep calling us down from our mountains of privilege.
Keep expecting more of us as your disciples.
Keep reminding us to listen to your Son,
in whose name we pray. Amen.
Assurance of Grace
One: Whether we hear a voice from the heavens or a still
small voice in our hearts,
listen carefully for the love of God.
Believe and accept God’s love and live in God’s freedom.
All: We believe! Thanks be to God!
~ written by Rev. Dr. David Bahr, pastor of Park Hill Congregational United Church of Christ in Denver, Colorado. Posted on the United Church of Christ website.
