Wednesday of Holy Week 8 April

DAILY BYTE – Authentic Worship – Confession

The psalmist writes, “Do not let the foot of the arrogant tread on me…” We are quick to point fingers and pass judgment about “the arrogant,” but perhaps, it is we, ourselves, who are arrogant. We fear judgment, and because we fear it, we prevent ourselves from being authentic with God and with others about our human failings, weaknesses, and sins.

But we are called in this Holy Week to show God who we truly are, warts and all. We are called to stop treading ourselves into the ground and instead turn our eyes toward the cross, the source of our forgiveness.

As we draw nearer and nearer to Good Friday, we must become more and more honest with ourselves and with God about the reasons that we need to be forgiven. Otherwise, Good Friday cannot be “good.” If we refuse to confess and ask for forgiveness, God’s grace is available to us anyway, but we may struggle to reach out and grab hold of it.

So, today, make a list of things that you have especially struggled to confess to God. This is not a time to be shy, squeamish, afraid, or embarrassed. Christ knows everything about us anyway. This is simply the time for you to admit honestly who you are so that you can know that the death and resurrection of Christ, whose love is truly steadfast no matter what we’ve done, is a death died and a life raised for you. This is the time for you to be real with God so that you may come to know that you are forgiven and given refuge in the shadow of God’s wings.

PRAY-AS-YOU-GO

Most merciful God, we your Church confess that often our spirit has not been that of Christ. Where we have failed to love one another as he loves us, where we have pledged loyalty to him with our lips and then betrayed, deserted, or denied him, forgive us, we pray; and by your Spirit make us faithful in every time of trial; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hear this assurance today, as well: Who is in a position to condemn? Only Christ. But Christ suffered and died for us, was raised from the dead and ascended on high for us, and continues to intercede for us. Believe the good news: In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen.
- from The United Methodist Book of Worship

FOCUS READING

Psalm 36:5-11

Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your judgments are like the great deep; you save humans and animals alike, O Lord. How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. O continue your steadfast love to those who know you, and your salvation to the upright of heart! Do not let the foot of the arrogant tread on me, or the hand of the wicked drive me away.