Gracious and loving God,
On this eve of Lent, as we gather in your presence, we give thanks for your abundant mercy and steadfast love. You have journeyed with us through every season of life, and now, as we prepare our hearts for this holy time of reflection, repentance, and renewal, we seek your guidance.

Lord, we come before you, acknowledging our need for grace. Too often, we have fallen short of your will. We have neglected the needs of others, turned away from your voice, and sought our own ways instead of yours. Yet, in your boundless compassion, you invite us back. Help us, O God, to enter this season with humility, opening our hearts to the transforming power of your Spirit.

As we gather on this Shrove Tuesday, a day of preparation, may we not only clear our tables but also clear our souls of all that hinders our walk with you. Grant us the courage to lay aside our burdens and take up the cross of Christ with faithfulness and devotion. May our fasting be not just from food but from anything that separates us from your love. May our prayers be sincere, and may our acts of love reflect your goodness in the world.

We pray for those who are in need this day—for the sick, the grieving, the lonely, and the weary. Surround them with your healing presence. We lift up our church, our community, and our world, asking that your justice, peace, and mercy might be known in every land.

As we begin this Lenten journey, remind us that we do not walk alone. You walk with us, leading us from ashes to Easter, from sorrow to joy, from death to life. Strengthen us to be your faithful disciples, that in all we do, we may glorify you.

And now, with the confidence of the children of God, we pray as Jesus taught us, saying:

Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.