Thursday, the fourth week of advent devotion comes from Michael Hoy's, "Light of Grace: Devotions for Advent."
According to your steadfast love remember me, for the sake of your goodness, O Lord!
Psalm 25:7 NRSV
Author's Reflection
The psalmist knows that he has no reason to be remembered. He confesses the truth of his sin. What is more, he is aware that he is hated by his enemies who seek only his shame. He describes his life as "lonely and afflicted" (v. 16). Indeed, that is all that would reside in the life of this poor soul, were it not for the fact that he trusts God's steadfast love.
Steadfast love re-members us. It makes us members again of God's kingdom of love. We may recall this cry to remember from another. Jesus turned his eyes before his death to a criminal being crucified with him. This criminal acknowledged the truth of his sin and its consequences even in the fleeting moments before dying and made one last plea to Jesus: "Remember me" (Luke 23:42). Jesus' love remembered him that day and welcomed him into paradise as a child of God. The beautiful lyrics of "Amazing Grace" help us all to remember always, "How precious did that grace appear / The hour I first believed."
Author's Prayer
Lord, for the sake of your own mercy and grace, remember us according to your steadfast love. Amen.
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