By Beth Bontrager, administrative assistant, Mennonite Historical Library
Scripture: Psalm 51:1-12 (NRSV)
Psalm 51—a psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba
David was a Sinner, with a Capital “S.” Seducing another’s wife and having that husband killed so David could marry the widow, well, that’s pretty high on any Sin thermometer.
But Psalm 51 is a psalm of confession, of God’s mercy, of hope, and reconciliation. This Psalm heals the broken relationship between David and God, addressing the Sin Problem. “My sin is always before me…create in me a pure heart…restore to me the joy of your salvation…my mouth will declare your praise.”
My father, Marion Bontrager, taught about the Sin Problem in Bib Lit at Hesston College. Sin is anything which breaks relationships—with God, with others, with self, with our environment. Jesus is our healer, the ultimate answer to the Sin Problem. We confess, we are penitent; we take steps to heal our brokenness.
My sister and I have had a rocky relationship—best of friends, best of enemies. I am currently making her a present. It requires diligence, patience, and detailed focus. I am constantly reminded of why I am creating this item. I want to heal our relationship, and this symbol will reinforce words already spoken.
What broken or strained relationships and covenants do you have? Can you cry out like David that you know your iniquities and ask for a renewed spirit? “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart.” In this time of Lent, make right your broken relationships, with self, others, your environment and with God: prepare for the joy of life and healing through Christ’s resurrection.
Scripture: Psalm 51:1-12 (NRSV)
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.
2Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
3For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.
4Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are justified in your sentence and blameless when you pass judgment.
5Indeed, I was born guilty, a sinner when my mother conceived me.
6You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.
7Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
8Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have crushed rejoice.
9Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.
10Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.
11Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me.
12Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit.