A Collect to be Moved by the Word

God of patience, who tarries with us far longer than we deserve, we are stubborn and fearful, and we are also jaded and hardened by the trouble of this world. Even so, may our hearts be moved when we encounter you and your word, that we might be changed, transformed bit by bit into the likeness of your beloved son, through whom we stand before you and your spirit to offer our humble request. Amen. “He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’” – Luke 16:31