Suggested Readings: Psalm 32, Joshua 4:1-13, 2 Corinthians 4:16-5:5
I have two cats, which is likely not a great surprise given the well-known and very true stereotype of librarians. Twyla and Tina bring my family such joy and also mischief. Twyla has earned the nickname "My Little Gray Shadow,” as she loves following me around the kitchen. Sometimes, Twyla and I have a run-in with my shoes and her paws, resulting in startled cries from us both. Seeing the hurt shining in her big yellow eyes leaves me feeling awful and guilty. While this cat-related failure of mine is actually pretty low stakes and maybe even a little silly, it serves as an example of the inevitability of the failures we will encounter in this life, despite our best intentions.
Psalm 32 teaches that God comforts and blesses us whenever we sin. Before David confesses his sins, he speaks of how he feels in verse 3: “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.” Guilt weighs us down. Guilt is a burden both physically and spiritually. But when we acknowledge our sins to God, forgiveness relieves us of that burden. Verses 6 and 7 tell us exactly how to relieve ourselves of this relentless pressure.
Therefore let all the faithful pray to you while you may be found; surely the rising of the mighty waters will not reach them. You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.
After stepping on her paw, Twyla forgave me instantly with a purr, even though she couldn’t really understand it was an accident. Her love and trust reminds me that God surrounds me with deep, unconditional love and understanding. Sinning is a part of human existence in this life. Feeling the guilt of that sin can be a difficult burden to bear, but God is here to relieve us. Lent is a time to accept the abundant grace and forgiveness that is offered freely. All we must do is reach out to God with an open heart, and He will forgive us of the weight of guilt and shame.
Nicole Fox
Nicole Fox
