Father in heaven, I love you. I love you because you are more than worthy of my love. I love you because you first loved me. I love you because you sent your son to be my big brother and pay the price for my adoption into your family. I love you because of your faithfulness. I love you because you have permitted me in your grace to love you.
You know me, Lord, for who I am. My motives and heart are open before you. Cleanse me from the inside out. And help me to live as Jesus did—with pure and true motives.
To you, O Lord: I can only offer my wonder and awe. When I consider the vastness of the universe in which our tiny blue planet spins its existence, I am humbled at your wonderfully complex and expansive sovereignty. At the same time, Father, I treasure your nearness. You are the good far above all I know, the God my Father who is ever near.
Thank you that you live with those of us who are contrite and repentant and who long for your presence. You know we are only mortal, but you love us. You know that we are flawed, but you redeemed us. You know that we are not perfect, but sent Jesus as the perfect sacrifice to save us.
Amen.