God’s Word is indeed a lamp

Pastor: God’s Word is indeed a lamp; in its inspired voice, we hear useful teaching, rebuke, correction, instruction, and training for a life of following Jesus.  As we prepare to worship this day, let us examine our lives in the light of God’s Word and humbly confess the darkness in our hearts.

(There is silence to call to mind our sins.)

Pastor Merciful Lord, 

People: we confess the many ways in which we have sinned.  We have hidden the light of Your Word and have run from Your ways and Your commands.  We have chosen the ways of the world, rather than the path You set before us.  We have neglected the teaching and hearing of Your Word. The slavery of sin holds us down and we cannot free ourselves.  

For the sake of Jesus, forgive us, renew us, and lead us so that we may delight in Your will and walk in Your ways, to the glory of Your holy name.  Amen.

Pastor: The light of God’s grace reaches even to the darkest corners of our sinfulness.  In His mercy Almighty God has given His Son to die for us and for His sake cleanses us of all our sins.  Because of Christ, you are forgiven, and in Him you are a new creation.

People: Amen!  Praise be to Christ who sets us free!