Disposition of Ashes by John Ragai via flickr CC BY 2.0
Saving God,
who calls us to be liberated from sin and selfishness,
we search for you,
knowing that we are mortal and you are the giver of life.
We have no confidence in our words or deeds,
but only in your grace, mercy, and forgiveness.
You alone are our hope, our salvation.
Receive us as prodigals come home.
Guide us again into the ways of
righteousness and responsibility, peace and compassion,
that while we live, we might reflect the goodness of your creation.
Timothy Matthew Slemmons, professor at Dubuque Theological Seminary
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While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said,
“Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”