Each student in my human development class is required to give an oral report on a helping agency. Recently a student began, “My report is on the National Association of ahh sorry.” He momentarily forgot and started over. His error caused me to wonder who would belong to a National Association of Sorry. Would they be people who are continually sorry about their behavior, their speech or their appearance? I knew of a man who thought he was so ugly he would select seats in subway cars so people would not have to look at him.
I wondered if our prayers are often sorry appeals for God’s mercy. Do we fill our petitions to God with tales of remorse because we are not good enough and thus continually beg for forgiveness? If so we really are a sorry lot and should join a National Association of Sorry.
Jesus instructs us to approach God as our father. I would be truly dismayed if each time I talked with my sons they had to begin by telling me how sorry they are about not being perfect. Actually they are perfect. But I refuse to brag. In Hebrews 4:16 we are instructed to come boldly before the throne of God. In Romans 8 Paul assures we are God’s sons and daughters with full rights to the inheritance that Jesus received.
I am not saying we should not be repentant and sorry for our sins. We should be. I am instead referring to an attitude of joy instead of one of continued remorse. Christ calls us to the abundant life.
Written by Roger Bothwell on September 25, 2003
Spring of Life, 151 Old Farm Rd. Leominster, MA 01453