Shepastor: "A Lenten Litany for the Beloved Community..."

Several years ago, I was asked to prepare a litany for a community Lenten Service. Below are the words I was inspired to prepare. May they be a blessing to you and those you serve...

“A Lenten Litany for the Beloved Community”

Leader: During this Lenten Season, we remember our Savior’s ministry, life, death and the horrific pain he endured, not only physically, but in his spirit as he took upon himself the sins of the world. We remember how you wept over the unbelief of your people, the hypocrisy of the religious leaders, the neglect and the marginalization of the oppressed.

People: Lord, help us to see ourselves and others as you see us.

Leader: Today we remember that Jesus was wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities, the chastisement of our peace was upon him and with his stripes we are healed. With this in mind, let us rededicate ourselves to his ministry of teaching and his way of demonstrating love, peace and understanding of the social conditions of all humankind.

People: Lord, help us to become more committed to improve the conditions of poor and oppressed people and all God’s people.

Leader: All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. All of our righteousness is as filthy rags. Through the blood of Jesus, however, we can be washed clean. Through the power of his Holy Spirit, we can be made whole. Through the love of Christ, we can become all that God has created us to be.

People: Lord help us to remember that you have not called us to a “religion,” but a “relationship.” Help us to be in right relationship first with you and then with one another.

Leader: Lord, you have called us to be the “beloved community,” to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with you. You have called us to free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who are over worked, and to let the oppressed go free.

People: Lord, you have called us to share our food with the hungry, give shelter to the homeless, clothe those who are naked and not hide from those who need our help. May we work together, not only to give immediate help, but to correct systems that keep the poor oppressed.

In Unison: Lord, help us to become the beloved community that you came for, lived for, died for, rose for and for whom you will come again!

Post a comment or send me an email at Shepastor1@hotmail.com

Until next Wednesday,
In Faith, Hope, Love and Perseverance,
Pastor Chris
www.shepastorchris.org