Listen

The one whose wrongdoing is forgiven, whose sin is covered over, is truly happy!

The one the Lord doesn’t consider guilty— in whose spirit there is no dishonesty— that one is truly happy!

Psalm 32:1-2

Think

A few years ago, the husband of a couple I love very much passed away. I thought about his widow regularly but never reached out to her. Weeks later, she emailed to say how disappointed she was that I had never called or sent a note. I should have contacted her then to apologize, but I repeatedly put it off. I felt worse and worse, knowing how disappointed she’d be.

When her name popped up in my email months later, I was sure she would let me have it. But instead, it was a kind note asking how I’d been. I was shocked! This time I wrote her quickly to apologize for not reaching out. A huge weight had been lifted off my shoulders. Her kindness was such a relief.

It gave me a glimpse of God’s unfailing compassion that the Psalmist proclaims in our passage: “The one whose wrongdoing is forgiven, whose sin is covered over, is truly happy!”

Have you ever had a taste of God’s love when someone has forgiven you?

Chip Hardwick

Pray

Holy Spirit, thank you for reminding me of how much God loves and forgives me when someone here on earth shows compassion that I don’t deserve. As nice as that is, I know that God’s forgiveness is so much more overwhelming and awesome. Thank you! Amen.

Go

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide,
strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
all I have needed thy hand hath provided.
Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Thomas O. Chisolm in “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” (1923)