Keeping faith with God who saves:

“For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”  John 3:17 NIV

God Who is salvation and hope of our world;

Grant that in these times of uncertainty,

we may also learn to celebrate your gift of life to us; to appreciate that even in difficulty,

we can still see your natural beauty;

that though tearful we can still cherish

• life’s little moments

• life’s cautious expectations

• life’s turning cycles, in joy & in pain.

Stretch, O God, your hand upon us so that we may be encouraged by glimpses of hope;

in the vaccines offered,

in the lowered rate of infection, and

in the promises of the unfolding seasons;

May Lent open us up to your newness Lord,

as we embrace the opportunity:

to let go;

to trust you more;

as you fill us again with

hope, joy & creative faith.

Recreate in us your will Lord and move us from ashen sackcloth to being cleansed

and restored,

through Jesus Christ who offers Himself

for our complete salvation;

now and forevermore, amen.

By Revd Dr J Zihle