A prayer for Ash Wednesday

God of holiness:
your day comes near,
and we tremble,
not out of fear,
but from awe and gratitude.

For on your day,
we are fully known,
completely restored,
reconciled to you forever.

Jesus Christ,
Grace-bearer:
as we come to your fast,
may we be filled with your hope;
as we receive your gifts,
may our hearts be opened to others;
as we begin our journey with you,
may we put no roadblocks
on the path to Jerusalem.

Holy Spirit,
Creator of clean hearts:
as water rushes
into an empty hole,
may your sacramental silence
fill the emptiness of our souls.

Amen.

This prayer was written by Thom M Shuman for the Ash Wednesday liturgy at Iona Abbey in Scotland.