Grace Greater Than Our Sin

“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.” (Psalm 51:1-2)

"Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,

            grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Younger on Calvary’s mount outpoured,
            there where the blood of the Lamb was spilt

Sin and despair, like the sea waves cold,

            threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater, yes, grace untold,
            points to the refuge, the mighty cross.

Dark is the stain that we cannot hide.

            What can avail to wash it away?
Look! There is flowing a crimson tide,
            brighter than snow you may be today.

Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,

            freely bestowed on all who believe!
You that are longing to see his face,
            will you this moment his grace receive?

Refrain:  Grace, grace, God’s grace,

Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin!
        [-Julia H. Johnston, from The United Methodist Hymnal, #365]

God’s grace and forgiveness is greater than any sin, any wrongdoing, any brokenness or guilt that we might have.  Instead of being a victim of sin, He invites us to be a victor over it. 

But we have to stop trying to fix ourselves; stop trying to “earn” our way to God, or get Him or others to “like” us. Instead, simply accept His acceptance of you, just as you are (warts and all).  When you do, you’ll discover the true joy of a forgiven heart…yours!.  Remember that God loves you and I do, too!