Merciful Lord,
As we prepare for our journey of renewal toward the great paschal feast of Easter,
teach us to be good stewards of
your mercy and forgiveness,
so that we may extend these gifts to others.
Give us the strength to bear witness to you at all times,
even in times of stress and adversity.
And fill our hearts with love that we may be faithful to the Gospel Jesus proclaimed
and ready to celebrate his resurrection.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.