O Lord Most High, we confess that we have often tried to please You with our righteousness instead of pleading the righteousness of Christ. We have tried to cleanse our sins by becoming "better" Christians rather than receiving forgiveness through Your blood. We have constructed idols for pleasure and for ambition, and have not been joyful in Your presence, nor rested in Your accomplishment. We have sought our nourishment in vain activities and in setting our own course instead of trusting in Your daily provision. Merciful Father, continue to purge our darkened hearts with the light of Your gospel. Help us not to fear the cleansing work of Your Spirit, but make us eager for it, delight in it, and rejoice with unspeakable joy that we are being conformed to the image of Your dear Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.