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A PRAYER FOR THE SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST 

LUKE 15

17 But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! 18 I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands.”’ 20 So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. 21 Then the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’[d] 22 But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly, bring out a robe—the best one—and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; 24 for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ And they began to celebrate.

Are you running to me Jesus?

Maybe you should stop now

I'm not sure I am worth running to

I have made a mess of everything 

My life 

My body

My family

My work 

Everything

Are you running to me Jesus?

Maybe you should slow down

Run to someone else

I have screwed everything up

Been too selfish

Wanting all for me

Working and grabbing and hoarding

Never enough

Wanting every new toy and gadget

Are you running to me Jesus?

Maybe you should stop

Catch your breath

I have a lot to confess

So much I haven't given thanks for

So much I have taken for granted

So much I have thrown away...

wasted... abused

Are you running to me Jesus?

Thank God you are

You always do

You grab me up and hold me

Hold me as I shake from brief and anger

Hold me til the stress and pain subside

Hold me until I feel safe once more

Safe in your arms

Are you running to me Jesus?

You always do

You forgive me before I ask

Cleansing me of all my sins

Cleansing me of my guilt 

Lifting up all my burdens

Lifting me up so I can stand

Are you running to me Jesus?

I'm glad you're here

I'm glad you give me your hand

I'm glad you walk by my side

I'm glad you feed and care for me

Are you running to me Jesus?

Thank God you are!

Amen