Our scripture today is Daniel 9:9-10 (ESV).
To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him and have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God by walking in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets.
Daniel offers a communal confession of sin and prayers for mercy to the people of Israel. This is what God asks of us, to acknowledge our sin and be restored within the kingdom. Humans have been rebellious children since the beginning. God has sent messengers to warn us, but we are notoriously difficult to convince. When we return in repentance, God is always waiting.
Gracious God, we are sorry for our pride and willful disobedience. Forgive us, renew us through Your spirit, and send us to share Your love with the world. Amen.
