stumble

One:    Lord, we confess that we have put stumbling blocks in front of others.

All:     We confuse people about what it means to be your disciple when we say that we are Christians but then we treat others poorly, use our words as weapons, and deny love to others who are different from us.

… silence …

One:    Lord, we confess that our hands have caused us to stumble.

All:     We have clenched our fists in anger, closed our hands in greed, and shoved our hands into our pockets instead of reaching out to others.

… silence …

One:    Lord, we confess that our feet have caused us to stumble.

All:     We have walked away from those who are in need, stood still when we should have acted, and dug our heels into the ground out of stubbornness and spite.

… silence …

One:    Lord, we confess that our eyes have caused us to stumble.

All:     We have been too focused on ourselves, pretended not to see those around us who are hurting, and overlooked opportunities to serve you.

… silence …

One:    Gracious God, please walk beside us, guide us, catch us when we stumble.  Strengthen us by your Spirit that we may live lives that are true reflections of your love, grace, and mercy.  In Christ’s name we pray.  Amen.

based on Mark 9:38-50
Submitted by Katelyn Gordon, Associate Pastor for Congregational Life, Providence Presbyterian Church, Charlotte, NC