In the wilderness of silence, we encounter the needs of the world and all the powers that tempt us away from trust in God. I invite you to let your attention settle into this silence.
As Jesus fasted,
we call to mind all those who are hungry and thirsty,
deprived of the things that satisfy and nourish…
We recognize the temptation to feed ourselves first,
to meet our hungers at the expense of others.
We recognize the temptation to play the hero,
feeding others so we can be known as good people.
We recognize the temptations of consumerism, advertising, and the fear of missing out,
which shape our hungers to be limitless and make us hungry for what does not satisfy.
We sit in the presence of all the temptations of hunger…
Save us, O Lord, from the temptations of hunger.
Save your world, O Lord, from the temptations of hunger.
Teach us to live by every word that comes from your mouth.
As Jesus stood on the pinnacle of the temple,
we call to mind all those who doubt your presence and protection…
We recognize the temptation to put you to the test,
to seek special treatment that will convince us we are yours.
We recognize the temptation to trust in religious platitudes,
scripture and teaching taken out of context,
rather than in your promise and calling.
We sit in the presence of all the temptations of doubt…
Save us, O Lord, from the temptations of doubt.
Save your world, O Lord, from the temptations of doubt.
Teach us to trust in your unending love for your children.
As Jesus viewed the kingdoms of the world,
we call to mind all those who are politically powerless,
at the mercy of powerful people who use their lives for their own purposes…
We recognize the temptation to grasp power for ourselves,
telling ourselves that we are serving those on the margins.
We recognize the temptation of expediency over integrity.
We recognize the ways that we remain captive to the world’s demonic ways of holding onto power.
We sit in the presence of all the temptations of power…
Save us, O Lord, from the temptations of power.
Save your world, O Lord, from the temptations of power.
Teach us to worship you alone and to serve only you.
Faithful and steadfast God,
give your people the victory over sin and death,
and let your glory shine through us
for all the world seeking your grace.
By your Holy Spirit,
make us worthy participants in your heavenly kingdom
as it comes to earth in Jesus Christ. Amen.
Submitted by Rev. Nathan Williams, Covenant Presbyterian Church, West Des Moines, IA
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