LENTEN
PRAYERS 2018: PRAYING THE DAILY GOSPEL
FIFTH
SUNDAY
John 8:46-59
Jesus,
since we often resist You, it is not difficult to understand the strong
resistance You encountered among many of your people. Your words were
audacious, irritating, and unsettling to those whose lives seemed settled and
secure, whose faith seemed firmly grounded. You seemed mentally ill or
demon-possessed and blasphemous.
Since we
often smooth out your words so they do not require so much of us, it is easy to
miss the deep challenge that your life and teaching presented to settled
politics and settled religion that had closed themselves to new creation.
For the
most part, those of us whose have grown complacent in our settled lives are not
looking for change. We are not hoping for disruptive and radical newness. We
are looking for more of the same. We are hoping to keep our advantage in the
world.
Christ
Jesus, banish whatever resistance remains in us. Enable us to open ourselves
fully to your presence and instruction. Help us perceive the truth in your
radical claims about your identity, then respond with loving obedience that
brings glory to God. Amen.
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