Psalm 51:1-17 (Guide B)

Introduction

A Common Lent Reading and A Model for Confession

The season of Lent often begins with a call to repentance, and it is a season of reflection and contrition. Ash Wednesday's readings always feature Psalm 51, written by David after he has come face to face with his own grievous sin, provides a guide for Christian pilgrims in practicing confession.

Ellen Davis writes, “Psalm 51 is the Lenten psalm par excellence, for it is the only psalm—and perhaps the only passage in the Bible—that offers in-depth guidance for the particular work of that season, the work of contrition.” [1]

Ancient…