Heavenly Father, As we gather on this first Saturday of the Lent season, we humbly come before you to seek your guidance and strength. We acknowledge that we have fallen short of your glory and we are in need of your forgiveness. Help us to open our hearts and minds to your word and teachings, as we embark on this journey of self-reflection and repentance.

Lord, we are reminded in Matthew 4:4 that “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” May your word nourish our souls and guide us through this Lenten season. Give us the wisdom to make the most of this time, to reflect on our lives and to turn back to you with sincere hearts.

As we fast and pray, may we not seek recognition from others but rather seek to please you, our loving Father. And as we give up certain things, may we be reminded of the ultimate sacrifice your son Jesus made for us on the cross.

We pray for strength to resist temptations and for your love to fill us, renew us and draw us closer to you. Open our eyes to see the needs of those around us and give us the desire to serve and help others. In Jesus name, we pray, Amen.