Gracious God

Forgiving and Gracious God, who welcomes every daughter and son who comes to you in prayer; we open our hearts to you today to see if there be any wicked way in us, and ask you to cleanse our hearts.  Even when we are too ashamed to come to you asking for forgiveness, you already are searching us out, meeting us wherever we go to bring us your love and forgiveness.  We praise you that through the goodness you lavish upon us, we are strengthened to live more righteous lives, and through your love, you bring us into closer communion with you.  How wondrous are your ways, how saving is your grace!  Thanks be unto you, O God our strength and our redeemer.  In Jesus Name we pray.  Amen.