Psalm_51
ScripturePsalm 51:1, 101 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions....Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit in me.ObservationThere’s so much good stuff to grab on in to today’s reading that I had a hard time picking just a few verses; but these verses summarize it best. UnderstandingIn Exodus we learn of the midwives who, fearing God, did not comply with the king’s ruling to kill the boys as they were born (Exodus 1:15-19). And, because of their boldness – even to include lying to the Pharaoh, “God was kind to the midwives and the people increased and became even more numerous. And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own.” (vs 20-21)Talk about mercy! God saw the plight of the Israelites, the circumstances the midwives found themselves in and gave mercy – not according to their actions (because, really, they lied to the Pharaoh and lying is a sin and so is disrespecting those who are placed in authority over us) – but according to His unfailing love, according to His compassion. He “blot[ted] out [their] transgressions” and gave them favor – families of their own. In Acts, we read of a young man who overhears a plot to ambush and kill Paul; the young man is ultimately sent to the commander to share what he had heard (Acts 23:12-22). The commander takes heart (perhaps mercy and compassion?) and, knowing this, sends Paul with trustworthy soldiers in the middle of the night to Governor Felix – ultimately to safety – until his case can be heard. The young man – Paul’s nephew – heard the plan and spoke up. Because of that Paul was granted mercy and compassion. Life ApplicationIn both of these stories, someone – someone ordinary, unexpected – took bold action, bringing opportunity for God’s mercy and compassion on those who loved and feared Him. To me, this is a reminder that God’s got us. In this crazy big thing called life, God sees and knows the little details. He places people in positions and places to bring about His desires for His children. God, I ask you to “create in me a pure heart” and “renew a steadfast spirit within me.” A pure heart, so that I may not be distracted by sinful desires and miss the opportunities to be used by you in ways big and small. A steadfast spirit, so that I may remain faithful even when circumstances may seem big or out of my control. Thank you for choosing to partner with your children to carry out your will. And show me, today, ways that I can act boldly in Your name – to bring about Your mercy and compassion in the lives of those I encounter. In your name I pray, Amen. - ReiTo check out the discussion or to join in click here.