A Petition For Mercy

Do not hold us guilty for the sins of our ancestors!

Let your compassion quickly meet our needs,

for we are on the brink of despair.

Help us, O God of our salvation!

Help us for the glory of your name.

Save us and forgive our sins

for the honor of your name. . . .

Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture,

will thank you forever and ever,

praising your greatness from generation to generation.

Psalm 79:8-9, 13

A plea to God for mercy presumes that the petitioner is guilty. It is the cry of someone brought low, dishonored, and in need of forgiveness. When God shows mercy, he isn’t forgiving that person because of what he or she has done, but because God is compassionate to those who repent of their sins and ask for forgiveness. It is only because of God’s goodness that sinners are forgiven. Asaph understood that it wasn’t his worthiness but the Lord’s greatness that prompted the Lord to rescue him. In light of this truth, Asaph dedicated this prayer to praising God for being so merciful.

Are you in need of God’s mercy? His love and goodness are the source of your hope. Cast yourself on his mercy and let your lips overflow with grateful praise.

• O Lord, do not hold me guilty for the sins of my ancestors . . .