Psalm 51 - A Song of God's Mercy

    We are in the season of Lent, a time of self-examination and recognition of our need for God’s mercy in our lives.  As I read recently in Pope Francis’ book, The Name of God is Mercy, copyright 2016, we are sinners, but we are not corrupt.  As we confess our sins, God forgives us and cleanses us of all unrighteousness.  Pope Francis points out that only if we think we are righteous in ourselves, we are corrupt.  As long as we earnestly and sincerely seek God to understand our errors and unrighteousness, humbly confess our iniquity, and ask God to forgive us, then God always welcomes us, the penitent sinners.  Christ Jesus came for us sinners, to shower upon us His love.  No matter how many times we fall, God always welcomes us back.  He is always ready to help us stand again.  It is all a matter of humbly asking God’s forgiveness and mercy.  His love is eternal.

Psalm 51: 1-3  

Have mercy upon me, O God, according to the multitude of Your lovingkindness; according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my inquity, and cleanse me from my sin.  For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.

Zaburi 51: 1-3

Ee Mungu, unirehemu; sawasawa na fadhili zako, kiasi cha wingi wa rehema zako, uyafuta makosa yangu. Unioshe kabisa na uovu wangu. Unitakase dhambi zangu. Maana nimejua mimi makosa yangu, na dhambi yangu i mbele za yangu daima.              

    Psalm 51 is a song that expresses God’s steadfast mercy in the face of our sinfulness.  The good news is that God’s love triumphs over our carnal nature.  The good news is that God’s love also transforms us into His likeness as we diligently seek Him.  Praise the Lord for His infinite kindness!

               May God’s mercy fill you with His peace this Lenten season and always,

               Mama Anna

Note:  I will include some Swahili for the sake of those in East Africa who may read this post.  Also, since I got used to being called “Mama Anna”, this is how I will sign out.  In East Africa, adults who are married are addressed by their relationships with their children, most commonly the oldest child in the family.  They rarely use their first name.