Our scripture this morning is Jeremiah 17:7-10.
Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the Lord search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.
The prophet Jeremiah writes words of warning and comfort to the nation of Israel. Earlier in this passage he speaks of the sin of the people, but then contrasts here the joy of trusting the Lord. Much like them, we need to be reminded of our sin, not singling anyone out but remembering that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). God calls us to be blessed in Him, being strengthened and refreshed by His spirit.
We know that God waits for our return to Him, wanting to give us His love and forgiveness. Why do we find it so difficult to admit our failings and accept the reconciliation He holds for us? Our own feelings of guilt and the pain of confessing them are usually the cause.
We must remember that God already knows everything about us, including our sin. Our thoughts and actions cannot be hidden from God. The joy is that He still waits to restore us, to make us whole and ready to be His people.
Loving Lord, we regret the things we do that separate us from You. Help us to trust You and accept the blessing of forgiveness. Amen.