Calling on God, Seeking Pardon

Leader: When our Lord Jesus was about to ascend into heaven, He lifted His hands in blessing, promising to be with us always.  Even though His Word confirms His presence in our lives, we are a sinful people, in need of forgiveness.  Let us confess our sins to the Lord, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. 

People: The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

Silence for personal confession 

Leader: Almighty God, we have not lived up to our calling as Your faithful people.  

People: We confess that we have become indifferent and forgotten Your blessing.  We have done the evil You forbid and have not always done the good You demand.  We have faltered as Your witnesses to the ends of the earth. Have mercy on us; forgive us, and create new and clean hearts within us, so that, strengthened by You Spirit, may we joyfully serve You all our days, through Jesus Christ, our ascended Lord. Amen.

Leader: God has promised His grace and forgiveness to those who acknowledge their guilt, confess their sins, and turn to Him in true repentance.  Now may God bless you and keep you in His grace by the Holy Spirit, leading you in ways of faith and obedience, and finally bringing you to live with Him forever, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it. Be at peace.

People: Amen.

Pastor: Let us pray. O Lord, since Your Son has gone up with a shout and the sound of a trumpet, ascended in triumph and is seated at Your right hand, 

People:so open our lips to sing praises to our King, rejoicing and living in the truth of His victory for us. Amen!