March 6, 2019

“I had rather feel compunction than understand the definition thereof.”
Thomas a Kempis

“For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.”
King David – Psalm 51:3

Facing my failures is tough; many of us find it much easier to face the failures of someone else. To understand – to be willing to understand – my own sin often causes fear. If I am guilty, how can I stand before God? If I am guilty, how can I receive the acceptance and respect I need? God knows my sin, and He has forgiven me. Why dwell on it?

How do I learn? I must be aware in order to learn. I must see the relationship between what I do and the results that follow. I need to understand – to feel – that the choices I make matter so that I am compelled to make better choices.

When dealing with areas of sin in my life, I need to understand two things:

The choices I make matter to God.

The choices I make affect other people.

But if I allow myself to look at my life – to see the bad and the ugly – won’t I be rejected? Won’t others shun me? (Perhaps they will treat me upon seeing my failures as I would treat them.) People often respond in a variety of ways – but God always responds with forgiveness and cleansing. God does not show us our failings for condemnation but for redemption. His desire is our Salvation, not just in eternity, but today – right now.

Lord, as I begin this Lenten journey, may I not be afraid to see myself as You see me. May my joy at receiving Your forgiveness and cleansing far exceed my fear of the reaction I may receive from others. Even in this walk to the cross, may I begin to see Your salvation at work in me. Amen.