A prayer for Lent

Each month our St. Mary's has a family Worship service specifically geared toward young families, those with pre-school children.  This month the Vicar asked if I had time to write the prayer for this month's service, which is on the 17th.  I said of course.  Here it is.

Reader:  Jesus, You lead us into life               

Response:  Please help us follow.

Jesus, even today you ask each of us, “Who Am I?”  Our faith answers you, “You are God’s Son, the One who saves us."  We know that if we want to be saved, we must follow you.  You have taught us that we must take up our cross, every day, in order to follow you. 

Reader:  Jesus, You lead us into life               

Response:  Please help us follow.

Jesus, you explained that to finish your mission:

You must be rejected;

You must suffer

You must die first.

We want life, just like You. 

Therefore:

We must be rejected;

We must suffer;

We must die—pick up our cross, daily.

We fear pain.  We fear suffering.  We fear facing death.

Reader:  Jesus, You lead us into life               

Response:  Please help us follow.

Jesus, in order to follow you, we must walk in your steps. 

You rejected fear.  We speak your words and courage comes.

You embraced suffering.  We embrace you, and comfort comes.

You arose from death.  We rejoice in your resurrection and we find hope.

Reader:  Jesus, You lead us into life               

Response:  Please help us follow.

Jesus, during this Lenten season, help us to let go of the world—which will leave us empty.  Through the power of the Holy Spirit, help us to take up our cross(es) which will fill us with the fruit of you kingdom.  We want our hearts to hug the Holy Spirit and feel love, peace, joy, patience, goodness, kindness, healing and being right with You. 

Reader:  Jesus, You lead us into life               

Response:  Please help us follow.

Amen