Robert Parker: Piercing Heaven – Puritan’s Prayers

Holy Lord God, I dare not approach your altar before I have cleansed my soul by confessing my sins and professing my faith to you—my only Savior and Redeemer. . . .

Lord, though I have been guilty of several . . . transgressions, I still have not rent my heart with godly sorrow, nor thoroughly repented of my sins. I have not denied ungodliness and worldly lusts.

Who will deliver me from this body of death? None but you, blessed Redeemer—by the death of your body and by your blood. Now, with the help of your Spirit, I partake in these pledges of your everlasting love, and seals of my eternal redemption.

Wash my hands in purity, and cleanse my mouth by this confession of my sins. Purify me by this profession of my faith in your blood, that with a pure heart I may receive this bread of life.

Give me grace to examine myself thoroughly and sincerely. Fit me with a wedding garment of knowledge, repentance, faith, and love, and show me how to change. Then may I joyfully and thankfully depart from your table.

Amen.