I am a sinner.
As I reflecton God’s Holy Word and as I look into my own heart, I recognise that despite my best intentions I don’t measure up to that Word. All the while, God’s Holy Word is speaking deep into my life – exposing my soul. I can’t hide. I suspect that none of us likes to confess the reality of our sin – that it exists, that we express sin in many ways.

God’s word is alive and powerful! It is sharper than any double-edged sword. His word can cut through our spirits and souls and through our joints and marrow, until it discovers the desires and thoughts of our hearts. Nothing is hidden from God! He sees through everything, and we will have to tell him the truth.
Hebrews 12:12-13

But as surely as the Lord exposes our sin, He offers us grace. We can, we should, come boldly to the Lord, openly expressing our confession and looking to him for mercy.

So whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved grace, and we will find help. Hebrews 4:16

As I write this I am seated in the Convention of Synod where we are debating a proposal that would allow the ordination of both men and women. Sometime before this synod is over we will commit this proposal to a vote. What I recognise is this: According to our sinful state; for or against; we will sin. No single person can claim their stance is perfect and in full accord with the will of the Lord. So I will vote boldly, fully aware that I and over 300 other delegates will vote from our sinfulness – each one convicted of her or his own decision. In doing this, as in all the activities of my life: my speaking, my doing and my thinking, I am open to and seeking the mercy of our good and gracious God.

God grant each one of us mercy and grace toward each other. Lord have mercy! So what does a faithful life look like?
Let’s explore that together this weekend.

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