Time of Preparation
Begin by taking inventory of your surroundings. Are things in your vicinity conducive to a time of personal worship? Are there any changes or adjustments (turning off tech, making yourself comfortable) you need to make before you begin?
When you are ready, take some time to sit in silence and prepare your heart for worship. Ask God to clear away any distractions that might keep you from being truly present in this moment.
Confession
In this second movement, we simply see ourselves for who we are: people who need God.
“Repent, therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord…”
—Acts 3:19-20a (NRSV)
As we desire to be cleansed and refreshed by the forgiving grace of God, sit with this ancient prayer of St. Ephrem the Syrian, composed in the 4th century AD (adapted to modern language):
Lord and Master of my life, take from me the spirit of laziness, despair, the desire to dominate, and idle talk. Instead, give me a spirit of wholeness, humility, patience, and love. Yes, Lord and King, let me see my own faults and not judge my brother or sister. For you are blessed forever and ever. Amen.
Speak through the prayer slowly and intentionally, allowing the Spirit to search your heart and mind for anything which needs to be handed over to God.
SONG OF ENCOUNTER: Lord Have Mercy (lyrics here)