No one is perfect. We all know that to be human is to be imperfect. It is simply part of our DNA. When you do a multiplication problem on a calculator, you are going to get the right answer. When you check the spelling of a word on a word processing program on a computer, you are going to get the correct spelling. When you toss a jar of coins into the coin counter at the grocery store, the count will be right. Machines are going to be accurate. There will be no computational error.
While we humans can design and create these machines that are virtually error-free, when properly functioning, we ourselves cannot be error-free. We make mistakes: In mathematical computation, or typographical errors, or dialing a wrong number, or misreading instructions. We make mistakes which is one of the unique characteristics that makes us human beings.
Our mistakes, our errors, our wrongs, are not only of a technical nature. We also commit errors of judgment. We choose behavior inconsistent with our stated values. We lash out in anger, We neglect an act of compassion. We let ourselves be governed by false ideals. We take the easy way out instead of doing what we know is right. We bury hopes and dreams. We allow ourselves to be ruled by selfishness. We tell a “white” lie. We cheat in some way when we know we won’t be caught. We live at the expense of others. We choose expediency over nonviolence. We justify injustice.
Church is a place, a context, safe space, if you will, to acknowledge our failings, our shortcomings, our sins. It is a place to admit, with the psalmist, “I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.” [Psalm 51:3, New Revised Standard Version]
I do not believe that the church should judge people in a condemnatory way. I do not think the church should rail at people to make them feel dirty, bad, and evil. Jesus never did that. I do not support the use of the concept of sin with the threat of eternal damnation in hell as a way of controlling people and eliciting “good” behavior.
We need the church to keep us grounded in what is good, right, true, loving, peaceful, and just. The church invites us to know our highest good. The church encourages us to be aware of a far larger reality than immediate petty aims and interests. The church calls forth our best selves.
The church also celebrates our precious, mysterious humanity, This involves the awareness that, at times, we fall short, we err, we sin. The church helps us to see our sins and our transgressions for ourselves. The gospel gives us the gift of forgiveness, for ourselves and others. It reminds us have an understanding spirit toward other humans who also inevitably err and are not their best selves at all moments. In the New Testament, the concepts of forgiveness, healing, and salvation are intimated related. So, when we acknowledge, “I am aware of my faults, and have my sin constantly in mind,” [Psalm 51:3, The Inclusive Bible: The First Egalitarian Translation], we are on the way to forgiveness, healing, restoration, and wholeness.
The Lenten season is a time to reflect on our faults and sins. It is a time to free ourselves from the accumulated burden of sin, error, and bad judgement. Lent is a time to embrace the healing power of forgiveness and mercy, for ourselves, others, and the world.
Prayer
We give thanks for the gospel of Jesus Christ, and for the church which keeps the gospel alive. We are grateful for the healing power of forgiveness which is a core teaching of our faith. We are grateful that the church encourages us to learn from our past sins and errors and to find new life through forgiveness. Lent is a time to embrace the freeing love and mercy of God. Amen.
Lakewood United Church of Christ 