"Israel has sinned; they have transgressed my covenant that I imposed on them. They have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen, they have acted deceitfully, and they have put them among their own belongings." Joshua 7: 11 NRSV
For us, sin is a personal thing. During this season of Lent, we look at our own lives, taking stock of what we have done wrong and asking for forgiveness and renewal.
But in today's reading, sin affects the whole community. One man covets, steals, hides and takes away from God. This causes the people of Israel to be defeated by the men of Ai.
What sins have you committed? Which ones do you think affect your own community? The congregation with whom you worship? Your family? Your workplace? Ask God for forgiveness and a way to restore your relationship with anyone that has been affected by your own shortcomings.
God, reveal to us our sins and mistakes. Help us to be aware of how our faults can have far reaching consequences - beyond our relationship with you. And forgive us, Lord, forgive us. In the mercy of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims
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