You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins. Psalms 85:2 NIV
I often write of our necessity as individuals to come humbly before God seeking forgiveness. I don't want to take away from that–it's necessary; we must own our sins and repent. However, we also need to acknowledge our sins as a group. Those actions we take as a people in opposition to God.
The verse for today is from a song of thanks sung by a grateful people for God's forgiveness. In it, we also hear a plea for restoration and their promise to listen and obey. The result is in returning to their faithfulness; God will bless them.
Whenever we gather together, we must offer our prayers of confession. We admit to those times we have stood silently watching as injustice happens around us and our failure to exercise mercy to the suffering. However, when we come humbly and earnestly, our hearts are intent on change, our gracious God offers us pardon.
Lord, we confess we have sinned as a people. We have not acted in obedience and failed to show justice and mercy. Help us to stand in the face of what is popular, for what is right. Grant us the courage to take up our cross as a people and follow you. May our collective actions reflect the righteousness of your kingdom. In Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
