Lenten Devotional...February 15

Psalm 51:10-19

In this throwaway world, there is little patience with broken things. In our affluence, that which is flawed is often discarded, quickly replaced with something new. In ancient Israel, the brokenness of sin was often “fixed” by the sacrifice of an animal in the temple. The burning flesh of that sacrifice supposedly appeased the God of heaven who, upon breathing in the smell of such sacrifice granted forgiveness to the people. It was an easy fix, requiring little from the sinner.
 
As David confesses his sin before God, he realizes such sacrifice fails to get to the heart of the matter. “You do not take pleasure in burnt offerings,” he says. “My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.” David’s confidence in the unfailing compassion of God melts his arrogance, and for that moment, reveals a brokenness that he knows can only be repaired by God.
 
The cross of Christ reminds us of God’s willingness to repair broken hearts and lives. May the brokenness of your heart and mine open the door that God might continue the great work of grace in us.

Prayer: God of compassion, may we come before you in brokenness, allowing you to mend our hearts and lives, through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray, Amen.

Jim Abernathy