Grief for Sin

DAY 149
2-21-10
EZRA 10


Good Morning!

We live in a cold world. There’s not much shame any more. Nor is there much grief or shame for personal sin. To often today, sin isn’t sin – it’s a “mistake”. Even though Ezra knew that God would extend a "moment of grace" (9:8), Ezra says “there is still hope” and sets out make things right. God was still going to demand that the foreign women and children be sent away. Repentance is hard!

I am touched the grief for their sin. No excuses. No “yah, but…” They admitted they sinned against God and his word – even though the remedy was going to be hard on every one.

We read in Ezra 10:1-4 While Ezra was praying and confessing, weeping and throwing himself down before the house of God, a large crowd of Israelites — men, women and children — gathered around him. They too wept bitterly. "We have been unfaithful to our God…let it be done according to the Law. Rise up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it."

Healing begins when we are genuinely sorry for our sins; openly confessing them; and be determined to live right lives in front of God. It may be hard, but the God of grace will give us the strength.

Barry