Forgive us our Debts

Penitentiary

Quakers had high hopes for reform. Their goal--repentance. Their prayer for the prisoner--transformation. What if the criminal does not recognize her debt? Her trespass? Her sin against another? Her choice to place herself in control?

Another word used for 'debt' is 'trespass'. Forgive us when we cross boundaries, deny dignity, give unwanted and unsolicited advice. Forgive us when we trample down new growth with our clumsy-footed self-righteousness. Forgive us when we share glimpses of secrets with those that are voyeurs of other people's pain.

The word 'sin' is also interchangeable. Correct our aim Lord so we don't miss the bull's eye with how we act. Forgive us for choosing our own target and changing our stance in order to justify our actions and miss out on the richness of submitting to your ways and plans.

Of what debts, trespasses or sin will you request forgiveness?

Father I pray as we examine our hearts, please strip away the veneer that hides our hearts from our own eyes. Thank you that if 'we confess our sins, You are faithful and just to forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.'(I John 1:9 NIV)