Lent Prayers from “Lent and Easter Wisdom”
Compiled by John V. Kruse
March 20-26, 2023
Monday, March 20. Lord, this Lent I hear you calling me to turn toward you, the source of true life, and away from the “dead-end” of my old way of life. May the acts of self-sacrifice I perform this holy season serve not as a cause of self -satisfaction and pride but be means by which I am reminded of my spiritual hunger for you. Turn me to you, Lord.
Tuesday, March 21. Lord, it is easier to speak of my faithfulness than to live it from my heart. I do not want to live a life of hypocrisy where my words say one thing but my heart and actions say another. Give me the strength and courage so that I might be a person of integrity. Permeate me with the fire of your love so that my words are not empty but reflect a heart and life devoted to you.
Wednesday, March 22. Lord, this Lent help me let go of the pride that hinders my relationships with you and with others. Lead me out of my sense of self sufficiency and superiority to recognize my total dependency on you. As I grow in humility, let me cling to the treasure that can be found through life with you, a treasure that the world does not begin to offer.
Thursday, March 23. Lord, as I gaze at your face I see myself as you call me to be. May my heart, mind, and will be stirred by this encounter. While you serve as a mirror of me I also desire to become a mirror that reflects your presence to the world. Assist me as I strive to become more like you by living in simplicity, humility, and love for others.
Friday, March 24. Lord, you call me to follow you by taking up my own cross in life. Grant me strength and courage to more willingly and lovingly embrace the trials, struggles, and persecutions of my own life so that your glory might shine through me.
Saturday, March 25. 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 26 (Fifth Sunday of Lent). 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.