Merciful Lord, slow to anger and abounding in love, be merciful to your foolish children and call us again to repentance, that we would return to you, grieving our sins and seeking anew your ways and your presence, through Christ our savior who took our sins upon his shoulders and now intercedes for us before your throne in the Holy Spirit. Amen.
‘Yet even now, says the LORD, return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; rend your hearts and not your clothing. Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from punishment.’ – Joel 2:12-13