Opening Prayer
Let us pray
for confidence in the love of God
and the strength to overcome all our weakness.
Father,
you have taught us to overcome our sins
by prayer, fasting and works of mercy.
When we are discouraged by our weakness,
give us confidence in your love.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Daily Meditation
This Sunday brings us closer to the font of renewing our baptismal commitment.
In most parishes, probably one liturgy will offer
the first of three Scrutinies for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults,
using the John's Gospel of the Woman at the Well .We are deeply aware that there is a struggle going on in us.
We turn to God, that we might not become discouraged.
We rely on God's compassion and love for us.
We acknowledge who we are
- sinners who experience the consequences of our selfishness -
but we know we are loved and we desire to be filled with hope.We go into this week renewed in our desire to continue our
prayer, fasting and generosity toward others.
Let us praise our loving Redeemer, who gained for us this season of grace.
Let us pray to him, saying:
Lord, create a new spirit in us.
Christ, our life, through baptism we were buried with you and rose to new life with you,
- may we walk today in newness of life.
Lord, you have brought blessings to all mankind,
- bring us to share your concern for the good of all.
May we work together to build up the earthly city,
- with our eyes fixed on the city that lasts forever.
Healer of body and soul, cure the sickness of our spirit,
- so that we may grow in holiness through your constant care.
Closing Prayer
Loving Father,
So many times I turn away from you
and always you welcome me back.
Your mercy and love gives me confidence
Thank you for the invitation to share, fast and pray
so that you can form a new heart within me.
Your powerful compassion for my weaknesses
leads me to ask for mercy
and await with great hope the Easter joy you share with us.