These Prayers for Lent are taken from “Lent and Easter Wisdom” compiled by John V. Kruse.
Saturday, March 28: Lord, you did not lead by intimidation and fear but by loving service. Teach me that the most effective means of leadership can be found in laying down my life and becoming the servant of others. May I become the kind of leader who leads others to you.
Sunday, March 29: Lord, may I come to a deeper respect for the sacred space of your house where you are present not only through your Spirit but also in the body of believers gathered in your name.
Monday, March 30: Jesus, following you is not always easy and carefree. It does require something from me; I must follow our commands. Often out of pride or convenience, I seek to follow my own will instead. Lead me through the narrow gate. Be merciful and soften my heart when I stubbornly refuse to follow you. Remind me that life with you is well worth any cost I may incur in following you.
Tuesday, March 31: Lord, I bear many burdens in life, some of which are imposed upon me by others. There is also much that concerns me; bills, work, family, relationships, and simply how I am going to get through the day. You knew very well the tribulations of human existence. Yet you patiently accepted the shortcoming of others and the trials of life, even to the point of death. When I experience trials and worries, I often become impatient and want instant solutions to my problems. Give me strength and wisdom to be patient as I face the burdens and concerns of this life. In doing so, may I learn the wisdom that comes in trusting in you and waiting on your assistance.
Wednesday, April 1: Lord, sometimes I avoid silence out of fear of what I might hear. Help me to overcome this fear and to quiet the many noises that surround me so that I can better hear your voice in my life.
Thursday, April 2: Lord, may the example of your own life strengthen me as I seek to overcome the pride, jealousy, and backstabbing that lead to divisions between others and myself. Help me to channel the love that you have given me so that I may develop life-giving relationships with others. Unite us in our love for you and one another.
Friday, April 3: Jesus, given your own life experiences, you certainly understand that there are people who make life difficult for me. I ask you to change my perspective. Rather than seeing such people as a burden in life, may I see them as blessings. Lead me to an awareness of how the trials and pain that such people bring can actually lead me to you. Given my own shortcoming, teach me the wisdom of being patient with others as I surely want them to be patient with me.