PRIEST: In just two weeks time we shall celebrate the incomparable joy of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus foreshadows his own resurrection by bringing his friend Lazarus from the tomb into life. He reveals to all that he is victorious over death itself. But the greatest victory Jesus wins is over the death that is sin, which distorts and wounds our world with its oppressive structures. Let us repent, and invite Jesus to rise victorious over sin and oppression within us, unbinding us and setting us free.
READER: For not setting free those trapped in the tombs
of war and violence, poverty, oppression and modern slavery;
for not loving enough to free people from loneliness & depression
LORD HAVE MERCY…
When we bind each other by our criticism and condemnation;
for entombing others in our un-forgiveness and harshness
CHRIST HAVE MERCY…
Because you call our name and draw us out of death and sin
into life, freedom, wholeness, holiness and humanity
LORD HAVE MERCY…
PRIEST: You are a God of Life, not of death:
may your mercy unbind us and heal us,
your word call us into life and reconciliation,
and your forgiveness lead us to perfect freedom,
drawing us to everlasting life…
AMEN!