God of grace and goodness,
what we claim as our own,
you create and give to us.
What we would use for ourselves alone,
you entrust to us for the blessing of all.
Where we perceive scarcity,
you provide enough for all.
Where we grasp and hoard,
you invite us to share.
Where we privilege some at the expense of others,
you endow all with value, worth and dignity
Where we divide and exclude,
you invite and welcome all to the table.
When we turn from your way,
you love us still.
When we fall short,
you make possible new beginnings.
God of grace and goodness,
forgive us, renew us.
Open us afresh to the leading of your Holy Spirit
for the living of our days.
We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
This prayer was written for the opening worship service at the 5 April 2013 Compassion, Peace and Justice Training Day by the Rev. W. Mark Koenig. It may be used freely.