King of Ancient Rule and Mercy

Oh King of Ancient rule and mercy and righteous judgement we come to you as confessed Pharisees and yet law breakers ourselves; broken hypocrites in need of mercy and forgiveness. We have criticized our own brother and sister and neighbor, even ourselves! We have exclaimed in political fights rules for the opponent but not ourselves. We have fought injustices with slander toward others. Our hatred goes so deep we fixate upon their actions without thought of our own ways. And so we stop dead in our tracks and confess our need for Salvation and cleansing of the inside of our hearts broken in sin. We acknowledge King Jesus who is The Law fulfilled and perfectly reigning seated on the mercy seat judging in righteousness and the atonement of the cross. 

Deliver me from my hypocrisy, God. Heal my heart and show me how to walk humbly with you. To serve you in good works to Your Kingdom. Teach me Your true law of freedom that lovingly cares for others, and renounces ungodliness and worldliness. 

Help me be devoted to You and your Church Jesus in selfless ministry and not of keeping score and tradition or ritual, but of extending grace with open arms to all who come searching for You. Give your Church wisdom not to discriminate against those who step into your house but to love faithfully as your bride who offers the same love to sinners and the faithful. We remember who we were, and what you rescued us from. 

The song of the saints has never changed, we sing the ancient refrains of David and Moses of how you brought us out of every hardship and trial. You don’t change God, you will always be. 

Help me be devoted to your Word and hearing your voice. May I not twist your words to fit my point but that it would untwist my mind to what is true, good and beautiful in your sight. You are the Word from the beginning of creation. You were there when the law was written for the good of your people to know how to live in the brokenness of creation. Your Word is a light to my path and gives life to my soul. Forgive me for using it as a rock to stone others, or a trap to ensnare those who I think my enemies. Help me faithfully proclaim Your Word and not think too highly of myself. 

Hear this prayer, God through Jesus your Son and by your Spirit living in me. Amen.