Lenten Prayer

"If you underestimate your sinfulness, you will under appreciate God's mercy."  

Oh Heavenly Father, how easy it often is for someone like me - who has been in the church ever since I can remember - to underestimate my sinfulness.  I committed my life to you as a very young boy.  I've lived the proverbial  "good life" and been very involved in church as a child, youth and adult.  How easy it is to wear the Christian veneer and absorb that into my way of thinking.  Jesus tells us that he who has been forgiven little loves little. (Luke 7:47)  I need to realize how much you have forgiven me.

God, the Apostle Paul said that all he did -- even as your servant -- was worth nothing but rubbish.  As I understand it, "rubbish" is a very kind and gentle word compared to what Paul was really saying.  Today, I want to realize how much you have forgiven me so that I can love you more.  Do not let me think, for one moment, that I bring anything to the table.

Then Lord, as you promise in 1 John 1:9, forgive me and let me celebrate your immeasurable grace.