Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Christian Lent

Daniel’s prayer for his nation as they faced the future desolation

Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes.

I prayed to the Lord my God and made confession, saying,

“O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments,

we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and rules.