Psalm 32 (NRSV)
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Verse 1Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Verse 2Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
Verse 3While I kept silence, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long.
Verse 4For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah
Verse 5Then I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord," and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah
Verse 6Therefore let all who are faithful offer prayer to you; at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them.
Verse 7You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with glad cries of deliverance. Selah
Verse 8I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
Verse 9Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding, whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle, else it will not stay near you.
Verse 10Many are the torments of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.
Verse 11Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
Devotion
Human instinct invites us to retain the sins of others and to hide our own faults. This world tempts us to keep score and project outward strength so that our failures and fears cannot define us publicly. But when we hold them in at all costs, they do define us publicly. Holding onto our sin and shame is exhausting work that leaves time and energy for little else.
I am in awe of the brave and vulnerable work of AA's Step 5: "We admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs." Not generally. Not an overview. Not simply what comes to mind in the moment. This step is a labor of love that is confessed only after careful consideration of the details. Revealing these specific reflections and secrets can take a long time. It can feel overwhelming, scary, and counterintuitive.
The psalmist promises that releasing our iniquities leads to forgiveness, abundant life, and freedom from fear. And in the midst of this grace, our hearts can tip upright and shout for joy like never before.
Prayer
Merciful God, your judgment is an instrument that interrupts our lives, calling us to trust you with our worst so that your best can spring forth. Give us courage to turn around when we hear your call. Amen.