Lord Jesus,
In a world that constantly forms us and drives us to seek comfort and satisfaction for our souls in everything and everywhere but you, grant us a contrite heart, for a contrite heart you will not despise. By your Word, turn us to the cross and empty tomb so that by faith we might see and know that you are faithful even when we are unfaithful. When we are doubtful, come close, and speak your Word of gentle grace. When we are stubborn hearted, come close, and speak your Word of renewal. When we feel far from righteous, come close, Lord, and bring to us your righteousness.
Grant us the comfort that wherever we find ourselves in this life, and whatever troubles and struggles we are walking through, you have put your name on us. We are marked and sealed with your name and Spirit, the one true creating, redeeming, and sanctifying God. Grant us assurance in the solid fact we are yours, held fast by your wounded hands.
Grant us the confidence that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in you, Christ Jesus our Lord.
When we are kneeling in weakness, you are there.
When we pass through the waters, you are with us.
When we pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over us.
When we walk through the fire, we will not be burned.
For you are the Lord, our God, the Holy One of Israel, our Savior.
AMEN.