Moving On

There is a story of a patient in a mental institution who sits alone and looks longingly out the window. Every now and then he wistfully moans, “If only I had...” And his voice trails off as his mind recalls a past event.

At one time he was a brakeman on a freight train. On a bitterly cold night, he decided not to light his lantern and leave the warmth of his caboose to warn an oncoming train that his train had stopped to reload its coal car. He had been at this particular place before and could not remember if there were any trains that needed a warning.

Unfortunately, an oncoming train did not see his caboose and crashed into it leaving three of his friends dead. He escaped with severe bodily injuries that healed, but, mentally he could not escape the scene. Whenever his mind recalled the event, he would say, “If only I had...”

Many of us have memories that have left scars we wish we could erase. David had one. He traded a peaceful mind for a moment of pleasure that left him overwhelmed with grief. Finally, he cried out, “Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways. According to Your love, remember me for You are good, O Lord.”

Was that prayer answered? Indeed. “When we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us.” And He also promises, “Their sins and iniquities I will remember no more.”

There is no sin beyond God’s forgiveness! And, no forgiveness without asking!

Prayer: Lord, we accept Your forgiveness and cleansing. But may we never forget that they cost You Your life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 25:7 Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways. According to Your love, remember me for You are good, O Lord.