Lenten Devotional -day 16
Scripture Readings:
- Micah 7:4-15, 18-20
- Psalm 103:1-4, 9-12
- Luke 15:1-3, 11-end
As we journey through this Lenten season, a time of repentance, reflection, and renewal, today’s scriptures remind us of God’s unfailing love, mercy, and readiness to restore those who turn back to Him.
God’s Justice and Mercy (Micah 7:4-15, 18-20)
The prophet Micah speaks of a time when wickedness will seem rampant, and even close relationships will be tainted by distrust. Yet, he affirms that those who trust in the Lord will see His salvation. He asks, "Who is a God like You, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance?" (Micah 7:18).
This is the essence of Lent—recognizing our failings and the need for God’s mercy. Micah’s words assure us that no matter how far we have strayed, God delights in showing mercy. He casts our sins into the depths of the sea (Micah 7:19), never to be held against us again.
The Compassion of God (Psalm 103:1-4, 9-12)
David’s psalm calls us to "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits". Lent is not just about sorrow for sin but also about gratitude for God's redeeming love.
God does not treat us as our sins deserve. Instead, as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us (Psalm 103:12). What a comforting thought! This Lenten season, may we not only repent but also rejoice in the freedom that comes from God's complete forgiveness.
The Father’s Embrace (Luke 15:1-3, 11-end)
The parable of the Prodigal Son perfectly captures the heart of God during Lent. The younger son wasted his inheritance and found himself in utter ruin. Yet, the moment he turned back home, his father ran to meet him, embracing him in love and restoring him to his place as a son.
Lent calls us to that same realization—to "come to ourselves" and return to our Father, who eagerly awaits us. No matter how lost we have been, His arms are always open, ready to clothe us in righteousness and restore us to fellowship with Him.
A Call to Action
- Examine Your Heart – Have you been running from the Father? Today is a chance to turn back.
- Rejoice in God’s Mercy – Let go of guilt and embrace the forgiveness that is already yours.
- Extend Grace to Others – Just as God has forgiven us, let us extend that same mercy to those who have wronged us.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unfailing love and boundless mercy. Help us to walk in humility and repentance this Lenten season, trusting in Your grace to restore us. May we never take Your forgiveness for granted, and may we be instruments of Your mercy to others. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Reflection: How is God calling you to return to Him today?
May this Lenten journey draw you closer to the heart of the Father, where His mercy is forever settled.
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