February 21, 2024, Wednesday of the 1st Week in Lent-B

Jonah 3:1-10

Psalm 51

Luke 11:29-32

My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit; a heart contrite and humbled… Ps. 51:17

“This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah.”  Lk. 11:29

Lord, the words “I’m sorry” can just be words to get us past an uncomfortable situation or they can be heartfelt and sincere.  Some of us use them many times a day and don’t give it much thought.  Others never say “I’m sorry” to anyone.  In his prayer to you, David expressed his deepest sorrow for his grave sins of adultery and murder.  He knew that a quick “I’m sorry” wasn’t going to cut it with you.  He prayed for a real change of heart.  He poured out his soul in grief over his offenses.   I know you can tell the difference between real sorrow and a halfhearted sorrow.  Lord, help me to have the true repentance of David.  Give me a broken spirit over my sins.  I have confidence in your overwhelming mercy and grace to cleanse me of my guilt and wash away the filth in my heart.  I come to you, dear Jesus, humbled and broken.  I can see the evil in my generation.  Child sacrifice and violence and war and poverty are all offensive to you.   Place within me the joy of your forgiveness and salvation and the humble repentance of David.  Amen