Who is there like you, the God who removes guilt and pardons sin for the remnant of his inheritance…showing faithfulness to Jacob and grace to Abraham MI 7:18-20
I remember preparing for my first confession with the innocence and trust of a young child, eager to join in communion with the rest of the church. I worked hard memorizing the Act of Contrition which was to be recited to a local priest in advance. I’m sure to ease nervousness as much as to make sure we were ready. When I was through, the gentle priest said, “That was very good Ruth but you must be heartily sorry, not partially sorry”. I was mortified. How could I have made such a mistake? What if I did it again in the confessional? Would God still forgive me?
The day came and we lined up one by one. Each one ahead of me had come out with a smile on their face. I wondered if it would be the same for me. Praise the Lord, it went fine and with the added grace of feeling washed clean like new fallen snow. The promise of the Lord was true. He does remove guilt and pardon sin. All I had to do was bring him a heart that is wholly sorry and ready for change. I had joined the remnant of his inheritance. I was included in the lineage of Abraham and Jacob.
Have I given my whole heart to God? Is there a part of me I am holding back? Have I said thank you
lately for being included in the remnant of His people?
reflected by Ruth Clarke Ragin
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