Merciful God, In this holy season, we slow our steps and quiet our hearts before You. You call us to return to You with all our hearts (Joel 2:12), and we come trusting in Your grace.
Search us, O God, and know our hearts (Psalm 139:23). Show us the ways we have wandered, the burdens we carry, and the habits that draw us away from Your love.
Create in us clean hearts, and renew a right spirit within us (Psalm 51:10).
Lord Jesus, as You fasted and prayed in the wilderness, teach us to hunger for what truly gives life. Help us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow You (Luke 9:23), not in fear, but in hope.
