I messed up again – I am sorry

“Confess your sins to each other…” Did you know James said that in the Bible?! Can you believe that? Old man James, the brother of Jesus, wants me to find a person and tell her/him how I have screwed up. The Catholic church encourages its members to attend confessionals, but I have never heard it encouraged in any of the churches I have visited. I’ll tell you what I think; I hope you will share your thoughts with me too.

“Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.

The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.”
James 5:16 NLT

God’s grace abounds to forgive us of all sins when we confess our sins to Him in prayer. The confession I mean here is entirely different; this confession tells another human being. Confessing our sins to one another can be a scary and vulnerable act especially in our world where the need for perfection is a high priority. In the Christian community, this can be so fear-full since we all want to look good. We do not want to be gossiped about or made to look not very ‘Christian.’ Secrets need the dark to grow.

“Many blush to confess their faults, who never blush to commit them.”
– William Secker

I mess up all the time, and for me, confession brings humiliation and accountability. No one wants to be humiliated, and my trusted friends do not humiliate me. Yours shouldn’t shame or humiliate you either. Light shone on sin feels like death. I know that’s what it feels like when I have to confess. Confession for me needs to happen sooner than later. For me, the momentary discomfort provides the necessary security I need to continue my journey with Jesus. Confession also begins the process of healing when we completely turn away from sin and look towards God. Confession without change is like saying “I ran over your toes. Ok, bye.” There are some fights I cannot win alone. Freedom means walking in light before God and others.

“The confession of evil works is the first beginning of good works.”
– Augustine

Do you confess your sins to anyone? I have found that confession brings freedom and accountability. What has been your experience? If you are like me, you want to hide your flaws and sins. A genuine relationship requires confession. It breaks the cycle of sin and shame. You know what friend? Real Godly friends are heaven’s gift.

 

xo,

Shalom