A Prayer for Lent 2018

Gracious and loving God, as we begin this Lenten season, give us courage to focus on the suffering and temptations that Jesus endured.  Make these days even more meaningful than ashes on our foreheads or foregoing small pleasures.  Throughout this Lenten season help us to remember that this is a time to reflect on our lives and how we live for Christ; a time to discover the temptations that take us away from Jesus; a time to become more aware of the sufferings of others in our community and world; and a time to choose ways that each of us can respond to those in need.  Guide us to pass these 40 days in a time of penitence, repentance, devotion, and renewal.  Through self-examination and reflection, draw us closer to Jesus, in whose name we pray.  Amen.