Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. – Psalm 51:7b
As I look out the window on a cold February morning, the ground is covered with a beautiful layer of snow. It reminds me of growing up in western New York where the snow began in October and lasted until April. One of my memories of the snow in New York was observing the snow plows splash gray salt and brown dirt across the gleaming white fields.
Lent is a time when we pause to reflect on the areas of our lives that have been stained by our sin, failings, and mistakes. We spend time in confession, ask for forgiveness, and turn away from those parts of our lives with repentant hearts.
In Psalm 51, we read David’s words about taking time to reflect on his need for a “pure heart, steadfast spirit, and the joy of salvation.” (Take time to read the whole passage today) This song and prayer is one that we can use as a model for our own conversation with God. It is also a foreshadowing of the coming of Jesus, in whom we find the ultimate forgiveness that draws us closer to God. Easter reminds us that we can experience resurrection and abundant life because of the sacrifice of Christ.
As you spend time in prayer throughout this season, let the images of a beautiful, gleaming snow-covered field remind you that God in Christ has made you “whiter than snow.” Sometimes a snow day is good for the soul!
Prayer: Dear God, create in me a pure heart and renew a steadfast spirit in me. Wash me that I may be whiter than snow. – Amen.
Rev. Phil Greenwald, Executive Pastor of Administration
