Exemplary repentance

Today’s first reading gives us the great example of penitence shown by the people of ancient Nineveh in response to the preaching of Jonah (Jonah 3:1-10): an example our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Himself cites in today’s Gospel (Luke 11:29-32).

As those gifted by our Lord with so many graces, should not we be even more exemplary in our repentance than we are now?

(Despite the title of this blog, I cannot say that I am exemplary - far from it. God, have mercy.)

May the words of our heart be the words of today's Psalm (51:3-4, 12-13, 18-19):

Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness;
in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense.
Thoroughly wash me from my guilt
and of my sin cleanse me...

A clean heart create for me, O God,
and a steadfast spirit renew within me.
Cast me not out from your presence,
and your Holy Spirit take not from me.