Confession: Parable of the Talents

Here’s a prayer of confession based on Matthew 25: 14-30, the gospel reading suggested for November 13, 2011 (Proper 28A). It was written by Rev. Richard J. Fairchild and posted on his Kir-shalom website. 

Prayer of Confession
(based on Matthew 25: 14-30)

Lord God, we confess to you our sin: those things which have
hurt others and which have offended thee.

Forgive us for not investing your gifts wisely.  We have been
negligent with the time and energy you give us - often
spending it all on ourselves while others have had to do more
than their share of helping and caring.

............... (silent prayer) ...............

We confess, O Lord, that through fear, greed, or ignorance,
we have not always used in a faithful and responsible manner
the wealth you give us.

Forgive us for being satisfied with sharing so little with
those who are in need, while spending so much, not only on
our needs, but also on our desires.

............... (silent prayer) ...............

We confess, O Lord, that we are prone to forget the purpose
behind what you do for us.   We forget that you judge us by
what we do with your gifts.

Forgive us for when we have buried the talents and failed to
work with all the things you give us.

Gracious God - forgive us.

Touch us and make us whole.  Amen

— copyright © Rev. Richard J. Fairchild, and posted on his Kir-Shalom website. Visit his site for other good lectionary-based worship resources and sermons.