From church this morning:

O God, we would be true. Hear our prayer:

As we respond to the Gospel, grant us increasing reliance upon you. We may commit a few spectacular sins, but we need to discern and acknowledge the less apparent sins that are easier for us to ignore. Our casual wandering from your will and our subtle aimlessness of spirit require forgiveness as well.

As we respond to the Gospel, grant us a gentle enthusiasm. Forgive us when we lapse into a style of faith that draws attention to ourselves rather than to you. Help us walk with spirited humility and to live with a flair for showing forth your light in our lives.

Charge our worship with attentiveness, alertness, and awareness. Grant us a sense of grace that we might understand your ways and serve your people. We ask it in Jesus’ name…

Amen. I especially appreciated this: “forgive us when we lapse into a style of faith that draws attention to ourselves rather than to you.” So much of Christianity (especially in this town!) seems to be all about people parading around letting everyone else see how “good” and “righteous” they are. Barf.

Show, don’t Tell.