02/26/23

First Sunday in Lent

Psalm 32, paraphrased by Pastor William

To be forgiven is happiness,

        there is joy in reconciliation.

O Lord you know my faults, but

        you choose to not remember them.

When I do wrong,

        I lay in my bed ruminating.

It brings me no peace,

        nor resolution.

But when I admit my wrongs to you,

        I open myself to your love.

I say; “I am shamed by my actions.”

        But you say “I love you anyway.”

So, I will always be open with you,

        I will always seek you;

even in times of despair and worry,

        I will always seek you.

In you I can take refuge,

        you embrace me with love.

You teach me the right way to live,

        you keep your eye on me always.

You warn me not to be stubborn;

        to not fight against your ways.

To fight against you is crazy,

        but the wise listen to you.

Take joy in knowing the Lord,

        shout for joy you who listen.