Prayer Before Scripture

Blessed Lord,
Who has revealed Yourself fully in Jesus Christ,
The Word made flesh, crucified and risen for the life of the world,
Open our hearts as we hear the Scriptures.

Where fear clouds our understanding, grant us light.
Where violence distorts our vision, grant us wisdom.
Where old patterns of blame and exclusion persist, grant us repentance.

Through the Holy Spirit,
Teach us to read through the eyes of the Crucified One,
Who reveals Your forgiving and reconciling love.
May we hear not merely ancient words,
But the living voice of Christ calling us into His peace.

For His name's sake.

Amen.