Liturgy–Facing Temptation
Prayer Celebration Directions

GATHERING SONG
GATHERING PRAYER
Leader		We gather in prayer to seek God’s help when facing temptation. God has called us to live good lives and to follow the way of Jesus. As we begin our prayer celebration, remember the advice of the prophet Jeremiah. Give ear and listen humbly, for God speaks. Give glory to your God, before the darkness comes, before you stumble in the dark; before the light you are seeking turns to darkness. If you do not listen, I will weep many tears, for you will be led away to exile. (based on Jeremiah 13:15-17)
READING
Reader		A reading from the Gospel of Luke. (Read Luke 4:1-13.) The Gospel of the Lord.
All		Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
RESPONSE
Leader		Just as Jesus faced temptations in the desert we, too, are faced with temptations daily. Let us now take a few moments to examine our lives and focus on what tempts us each day.
Spend a few moments in quiet meditation. Play instrumental music.
Leader		We offer petitions to God who listens to those who call for help.
Reader		God, help us overcome the temptation money and material things bring. May we know the difference between what we truly need and what we think would make us happy. Let us pray to the Lord.
All		Lord, help us to overcome temptation.
Reader		God, help us overcome the temptation of drugs and alcohol. May we reject the artificial effect of drugs to get us through life, but rely instead on your love for us. Let us pray to the Lord.
All		Lord, help us to overcome temptation.
Reader		God, help us overcome the temptation of sexual pleasure. May we treasure our bodies as gifts from you and care for them with honor and respect. Let us pray to the Lord.
All		Lord, help us to overcome temptation.
Reader		God, help us overcome the temptation of vandalism. May we value others’ property as we value our own. May we enhance rather than destroy the community to which we belong. Let us pray to the Lord.
All		Lord, help us to overcome temptation.
RITUAL
Leader		When we ask, God is always ready to help us overcome any inclinations toward evil. As you come forward to offer your temptations to God, write in the sand a word or two that represents a temptation you find most difficult to overcome. Then brush the words away, leaving your request only with God. Participants come forward, one at a time, to write in the sand and brush their words away. Play instrumental music. Following each participant’s action, respond:
All		Lord, help us to brush away our temptations.
CLOSING PRAYER
Leader		Loving and compassionate God, you know well the temptations we face today in our community, our culture, and our world. We ask for your loving strength to overcome these temptations and all our weaknesses. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ.
All		Amen.
CLOSING SONG