Praying Psalm 32:1-7

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I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

O Lord, my neighbor has injured me.

I cannot tolerate this—and I wish to avoid any contact. *
I would gladly feel kindly toward my neighbor, but I cannot.

Lord, I am helpless and forsaken. *
O dear God, change me by your grace, or I must remain as I am.

- Martin Luther

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

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Scriptural Theme

When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

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Praying Psalm 32:1-7 (New International Version)

Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the LORD does not count against them and in whose spirit is no deceit. *
When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD." And you forgave the guilt of my sin.

Therefore let all the faithful pray to you while you may be found; surely the rising of the mighty waters will not reach them. You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.

Response to the Scripture

Holy God, our Father, you dwell with the humble and contrite. Give us the grace to humble our hearts so that You will come and revive them.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

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The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

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Ending Prayer

O Lord our God, grant us grace to desire thee with our whole heart, that so desiring, we may seek and find thee, and so finding thee we may love thee; and loving thee we may hate those sins from which thou hast redeemed us, for the sake of Jesus Christ.

- the Oxford Book of Prayer

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 4: Lent Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Repentance” )