“Be of the same mind,” says God.
But we like to be independent, each going our own way, dancing to our own beat.
“Have the same love,” says Christ.
But we are not even certain what love is, let alone how to do it.
“Do nothing from selfish ambition, and look not to your own interests but to those of others,” says the Spirit.
But then how will we get ahead? How will we secure our future? How will we have enough?
“Be one with the mind of Christ, who was obedient to the end.”
We bristle at the obedience—we like to believe we are in the lead.
Forgive us, O God,
for we have replaced you with our own ideals, created you in the image of our cultural and economic dream, and situated ourselves at the top of the heap.
Yet you call us to let go, to be humble, to look always to Christ who emptied himself.
Empty us of all that harms, so we may be filled with your Spirit.
~silence~
Assurance of Forgiveness
Hear this good news: God is at work in you. Live this truth: God’s grace is more than enough for whatever you carry. Know that you are forgiven, loved, and free.
We will rejoice and be glad! Amen.
Submitted by Rev. Teri Peterson, the Presbyterian Church of Palatine
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