Daily Scripture & Reflection

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Daily Scripture

Have mercy on me, O God, in your great goodness; according to the abundance of your compassion blot out my offences. Wash me thoroughly from my wickedness and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my faults and my sin is ever before me. (Psalm 51:1-3)

Daily Reflection

Today is Ash Wednesday, the start of the period of Lent – a six week journey leading us to the joy of the Easter celebration. Traditionally a time of “sack-cloth and ashes”; an austere time, a seemingly bleak time. But actually a time of spiritual growth….if we let it be so, by entering into the spirit of Lent. The starting point is that simple statement by the Psalmist: “For I acknowledge my faults.” He recognises that he sins, and asks God to, “Cleanse me from my sin.” That is not returning to sack-cloth and ashes; that is about recognising and admitting our own faults and sins; which every single one of us have. That is the starting point of growth in a personal relationship with our compassionate God; He will “blot out my offences” – if I recognise and admit them to Him. Ash Wednesday is a good day to start that personal journey.

Revd David