Psalm 51:1-17

“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.”  vs. 1

There are likely few people who believe they never do anything wrong. Aside from the narcissists scattered among us most of us are deeply aware of our own sins and transgressions. We know that we have injured ourselves and others with hurtful words and deeds and are often troubled with feelings of guilt and remorse. Certainly that’s what the psalmist was experiencing when these verses were composed–it’s like he can’t find enough ways to express his pain and depravity. And even though some might think he goes too far, his words have resonated with countless readers through the years because sometimes this is exactly how we feel. Spasms of guilt overwhelm us, and we’re heartsick because of what we’ve said or done. In some congregations believers have the chance every week to confess their sins before God. It’s not that they’re reveling in wrongdoing or engaging in self-flagellation, rather it’s an honest confession that they have not lived as they ought. The best thing about such prayers is that they set the stage for words of affirmation and absolution. Like the psalmist we know that God is full of steadfast love and abundant mercy–and will never hold our sins against us. No matter how often we fall away, the gift of forgiveness is always ours! God never fails us!

Thought for the Day: What is a narcissist?