Prayer for Mercy

You are an awesome God
and there is power in this place.
Remind us of the perilous task we undertake
like the ancient priests
entering before holiness
drowning in blessing.
Remind us of the passion of that night in Jerusalem
terror and love co-mingling
at table
in a garden
during a trial.
Remind us of the dancing flames
of Pentecost ablaze
of prophecy and tongues.
We confess that we have made a routine of your work
have beat it into a familiar shape
sometimes dull.
Forgive us, renew us, transform us.
Amen.