I am a Sinner: the Perpetual Step

[MarloweDore]

I’ve come to find the most fundamental step a Christian must take every moment of everyday is to acknowledge that we are sinners, and this works in step with the second step: The supplication for Jesus: “Jesus save me, for I cannot save myself.”

I can read all the books to know all things, I can discipline myself so I can do all things, I can plan my life so I can be all things, but I cannot be a Christian if I cannot admit I am a sinner all the days of my life.

I welcome your thoughts, friends.

Peace be with you.

 

[Exiled_Child]

Yes, I agree. It reminds of the Jesus Prayer taught in the Orthodox Church: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.

Although the translation in my copy of The Way Of A Pilgrim is simpler: Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me.

In either translation though, the statement that “I am a sinner” is central, even when it’s just implied, and without the actual word.

I’d love to hear an explanation of the psychological principle behind that. I know that it’s true, but I’m unclear about the mechanics of it.

 

[chimo]

Yes, I agree. It reminds of the Jesus Prayer taught in the Orthodox Church: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.

Although the translation in my copy of The Way Of A Pilgrim is simpler: Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me.

In either translation though, the statement that “I am a sinner” is central, even when it’s just implied, and without the actual word.

I’d love to hear an explanation of the psychological principle behind that. I know that it’s true, but I’m unclear about the mechanics of it.

Jesus asked His Apostles who is greater the one who sits at the table or the one who serves at the table? The Apostles said the one who sits at the table. The Lord Jesus said yes you are right yet here am I one who is serving you. When we come to the Mass and the Divine Liturgy we are inviting the Lord Jesus to come from the table to serve us. He girds Himself and wants to serve. What act of service is the Lord giving but His incredible Mercy. He desires to unite Himself to us. This is the meaning when we go to the Lord knowing that we are in need of this mercy. We go to Him because He is the One who is willing to move up from the table to give to us this service. When we go to Mass or the Divine Liturgy look at how the Lord sees us. He treats everyone with that same respect and everyone no matter who they are, are all called to come to the front no matter where they are sitting for this same Lord when He sees you have made your seat says “come now to the front where all can see” for He acknowledges your presence with great delight. Yes we are in need of His Mercy by acknowledging we are nothing without it yet He exalts us into His greater presence when we allow Him this great service.

 

[hazcompat]

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner.

Peace