O God, 

as I begin walking with you this Lent, 

give me an experience of your heart.  

Draw me deeply into your very being, 

into the core of your love 

for me, others, and the world. 

Help me and those who pray this prayer with me 

to see others the way you see them: 

loving them, forgiving them, and delighting 

in the way they give glory to God through their very existence.  

Help us to discern out of that open place of deep affection 

so that we, too, might be useful vessels of your love 

in the world. 

Amen.