Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.” vs. 1
Psalm 51:1-17
Through the years we’ve come up with some creative ways to deal with the problem of sin in our lives. Most recently a sizable number of folks have decided that there’s been too much talk of sin in the church, and that we deserve a break. Some congregations have consequently eliminated the confession from the order of worship–it’s too negative, their leaders say, and people don’t want to be reminded of their faults and failings. They want to sing praise songs and raise holy hands–and so that’s what they do. The psalmist would have had a tough time with such a notion. He was constantly aware of his transgressions and knew that his spirit needed a major restoration. So he poured out his heart to God, confessing his sin and crying out for mercy. It’s hard to believe that people in our time are that much different from the psalmist. Oh, we can deny our sin and guilt and say we’re just fine as we are–but in our heart of hearts we know that our denials are one big lie. In truth we are sinners to the core! But that doesn’t mean that we are without hope! The psalmist never forgot that God is gracious and merciful, and full of steadfast love. Our sin can be forgiven–if we confess it! And our guilt can be lifted. Praise God!
Thought for the Day: Why is confession good for the soul?
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