Repent

Today’s readings give us dramatic instances of repentance.

In the first reading (2 Samuel 12:7-10, 13) we hear Nathan the Prophet rebuking King David, who repents at once (this is part of the story of David and Bathsheba – well worth reading in full – 2 Samuel 11:1-12:25 and Psalm 51).

In the Gospel (Luke 7:36-8:3) a notoriously sinful women weeps at the feet of Christ who forgives her (while gently rebuking his self-righteous host).

Are we HEARTILY sorry for our sins? Are we REALLY or are these just words we habitually repeat (and sometimes even slur into "O my God, I am hardly sorry")?

Are we like the weeping woman or the self-righteous man?

May we always pray for the grace of total, heartfelt repentance.