Yesterday we heard the story of David’s repentance, confession, and absolution. Through the prophet Nathan, God revealed the depth of David’s folly and his great need for the mercy and forgiveness of the Lord. We can deny our identity as sinners, we can pretend that we are not that bad, but sin crouches at every door, waiting to destroy individuals, relationships, and even our relationship with our heavenly Father. There is a tremendous need for repentance and confession, even in a world that declares you can create your own truth.
The accusation of Nathan certainly struck David to his core, but shame and guilt cannot be the end of the story. Upon his confession, David hears the sweet word of absolution. I heard from many of you this weekend how grateful you were to gather together at church. Dry roads and sunshine can definitely draw a crowd. Yet, at the core of our fellowship is the Word of Christ that sets people free. Our sin is removed and our shortcomings are forgotten. The Word of Jesus rings in our ears and we taste his body and blood on our tongue. Then we go forth as ambassadors of Christ, carrying out the ministry of reconciliation in our daily lives. What a gift we can offer.
Living in the freedom of God’s forgiveness,
Pastor Culynn
To prepare for worship on Sunday
(March 24), you are invited to read:
Jeremiah 29:1-14