Sabbath of Repentance
Holy and awesome God, I stand in Your presence filled with regret for my many sins and failings. Though there is greatness in me, and a deep longing for goodness, I have often denied my better self and refused to hear Your voice within me calling me to rise to the full height of my humanity.
For there is weakness in me, as well as strength. At times I choose to walk in darkness, my vision obscured. I do not care to look within, and I am unwilling to look beyond at those who need my help.
O God, I am too weak to walk unaided. Be with me as a strong and wise Friend, and teach me to walk by the light of Your truth. When I am tempted to suppress the voice of conscience, to call evil good and good evil, turn my heart to the rights of others, and make me more responsive to their needs.
And when I become immersed in material cares and worldly pleasures, forgetting You, may I find that all things bear witness to You, O God, and let them lead me back into Your presence. Amen