5 March 2013 - contrite of the world

5 March 2013 - contrite of the world

Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers
until he should pay back the whole debt.
So will my heavenly Father do to you,
unless each of you forgives your brother from your heart.”

From the heart?  That doesn't seem fair.  Sure, we know that we ought to forgive with an act of will.  We realize that it is fairly superficial and doesn't actually change much in our relationship.  Still, it is the aspect which is under our control.  There's no sense delving into the depths of our hearts to try to effect real change, is there? 

That change would involve a real sacrifice on our part, but:

We have in our day no prince, prophet, or leader,
no burnt offering, sacrifice, oblation, or incense,
no place to offer first fruits, to find favor with you.

The resources just aren't within us.  But when we realize that and abandon our own self-directed ways the LORD is able to lead us, not because we deserve it, but because that is who he is.

Good and upright is the LORD;
thus he shows sinners the way.
He guides the humble to justice,
he teaches the humble his way.

And where does he lead us?  To contrition:

But with contrite heart and humble spirit
let us be received;

But wait, didn't we start off discussing the forgiveness of others?  We did, but now we are seeing a little bit more deeply what "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us" means.  In order for us to truly forgive in a deep and transformative way we can't be holding on to the selfishness of sin.  We must surrender to forgiveness ourselves.  Indeed, we find ourselves in the same boat as the one we are trying to forgive.  Whereas before we had an excuse for superiority, we are now equals with our brothers, our fellow servants.

But we need not fear, the LORD has again and again proven his desire to heal us and make us whole.  We can count on him because he has proven himself to be steadfast.

Remember that your compassion, O LORD,
and your kindness are from of old.
In your kindness remember me,because of your goodness, O LORD.  

We may see our relationships as beyond God's power.  After all, free will is involved.  But do not give up!

Deliver us by your wonders,
and bring glory to your name, O Lord.”

Even if it takes wonders, the LORD will do it, so that we may all be blessed to see the glory of his name.