The Blessing of Turning

You may notice that this morning’s service is a bit more solemn than usual. That is on purpose. Apart from the exuberant opening psalm setting (From Heav’n O Praise The Lord—Psalm 148), the Scripture passages and hymns chosen for the service reflect on the sobering call to repentance at the end of Act 3. Hearing Peter urge his brothers to “repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19), we respond by acknowledging the sinfulness of our hearts (Gently, Gently Lay Your Rod—Psalm 6) and asking God to blot out our sins (God Be Merciful To Me—Psalm 51). We recognize that our guilt is so great (Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed; Man of Sorrows! What A Name) that only a promised divine redeemer can overcome it (Stricken, Smitten, And Afflicted). We confess that true repentance is a gift of God’s grace (Come Ye Sinners, Poor And Needy) and that blessings will come to those who receive it (Blest Is The Man—Psalm 32). I pray that this service would remind all of us to take hold of this grace, turning from our own wickedness to the Lord who promises to bind up what He has struck down (Hosea 6:1). —Henry C. Haffner