Remember, you are dust. As if we need a reminder. You are dust and there is nothing you can do about it. To dust you shall return. This has been the case ever since Adam and Eve took a bite from the forbidden fruit. From that time on, all people have had to face the fact that we are indeed sinners and sinners cannot save themselves. You are dust, and to dust you shall return. Still, there is hope.
Centuries before Christ was born, King David, of all people, stood convicted in his sin. Just like everyone else, King David was dust. David knew there was nothing he could do to merit salvation. Mercy could only come from the God whom he grievously disobeyed. And so, in his guilt and shame, he bore his heart to God.
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit (Psalm 51:10-12).
David’s prayer is our prayer too. Only through Christ are we saved. Even as we are dust, through God’s grace, mercy and love, Christ extends the promise of God’s kingdom to all who believe.
Prayer: Thank you for your grace, O God of my salvation. Amen.
In the Beginning 