Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness;
in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense. Psalm 51:3
Last week, I was walking with a friend on a lovely day complaining about someone with whom I had had an unpleasant encounter. As I reached the height of my righteous indignation, he nudged me and pointed to a beautiful flowering bush in full bloom. I had to laugh at myself because the incident spoke so clearly of how I miss the beauty of the present moment when I get stuck in resentment, when I indulge in nursing a grudge.
After that incident, I realized that as my image of God has been changed, I am more willing to look at my faults. I know that I am being called into greater freedom by a God who loves me, rather than being shamed by a punitive God who delights in pointing out my deficiencies. Looking at our imperfections should not be an exercise in contempt, but a way in which we become more deeply aware of how our wounds keep us from living with compassion and joy.
May the beauty of the present moment not pass you by…
Peace,
Cliff
CHURCH NEWS:
- John Gunter, a long-time friend of the church has died at age 100. May God give him peace.
- Wednesday supper, 5:30pm and Lenten Worship, 6:30pm are a great blessing. Join us!