God’s mercy is greater than our sins. There is an awareness of sin that does not lead to God but to self-preoccupation. Our temptation is to be so impressed by our sins and failings and so overwhelmed by our lack of generosity that we get stuck in a paralyzing guilt. It is the guilt that says: “I am too sinful to deserve God’s mercy.” It is the guilt that leads to introspection instead of directing our eyes to God. It is the guilt that has become an idol and therefore a form of pride. Lent is the time to break down this idol and to direct our attention to our loving Lord.
Lord, cleanse me of my hard-heartedness. Help me embrace your infinite mercy and love in my life.
editor: it is my experience that God is there to help us but we are stubborn and sit dis-trustingly in our sin. Together let us break down this idol and direct our attention to our loving Lord.
excerpt from Henri J. M. Nouwen ‘Christ Our Hope’