THROUGH THE BIBLE IN THREE YEARS
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A noted Washington Monsignor was asked to speak at a banquet at which a certain Senator was the guest of honor.
The Senator was late, but the Monsignor began his remarks on time. He said, "When I first came to Washington, I thought I had entered a place of great evil. And though I cannot reveal the facts of confession, I can hint of my impression. The first man who came to confession told a great deal of graft and corruption. However, over the years, I have come to know many lovely people, and it has been my honor to be among you."
Just then, the Senator arrived. He stepped to the podium, thanked the Monsignor for his remarks, then began his own speech.
He said, "I'll never forget the first day the Monsignor came to our area. I was the first person to go to his confessional........"
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Ps 51:3
For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
KJV
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Sin is to be "acknowledged" before God in penitent confession. The true realization of repentance demands confession. And, while confession does not deserve mercy, mercy is given from an all-gracious Lord because of His blood shed at Calvary.
Sin brings grief to the saved sinner. The knowledge of it haunts and taunts. And, for a time, we may remain silent about it in our relationship with God. But silence only increases the grief! We become filled with waves of sorrow. We tend to make excuses, and distract ourselves from prayer and Bible study.
Keeping sin to himself, the "Prodigal son" wallowed in the pig-mire. But when he determined to go to his father and confess the sin, he was received with joy.
Our sins are ever "before us," vividly displayed as spiritually criminal behavior.
We CANNOT forget our sins, for they are burned into the memory banks of our computer mind.
We SHOULD NOT forget our sins, for we should be humble before our Lord.
However, when we "confess" our sins, He is "faithful and just to forgive" and to "cleanse."
When sin is confessed, guilt is expulsed, and grief washes away in the surrender to our Lord. By His grace, brokenness is turned into joy. His mercy reaches down a hand of perfect love, and lifts the penitent sinner to be held in His tender embrace.
Let us realize, today, that genuine surrender to Jesus as Lord of our lives demands daily confession of sin before Him. It is necessary for a right relationship with Him Who has shed His own blood for the "remission" of our sins.
Love ya,
Bruce