We are the hypocrites.

confession and assurance of grace

Matthew 23:1–12



confession

When we do not practice what we teach here,
forgive us, God of grace.
When we place burdens on each other,
too heavy to be born,
do nothing to relieve the suffering of another,
forgive us, God of grace.

When we do good deeds for applause, not kindness,
are disciplined for show, not closeness to you,
forgive us, God of grace.
When we take on positions for the honour of the rank,
expect adoration and the best seat for ourselves,
forgive us, God of grace.
When we forget it is you who are great,
and we the servants to you and each other,
when we seek to be exalted, rather
than to kneel before you in humble gratitude,
forgive us, God of grace.

assurance of grace 

We have one teacher: Wisdom, Jesus, Word of God
We have one guide: Spirit, Breath, Wind of God
We have one source of life: Creator, Father, Womb of God

Receive from the Holy One Holy Three
the grace to heal you,
love to nurture you,
life to restore you.
Know you are forgiven.
Thanks be to God. Amen.