I  grew up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. My family’s relatives lived in a state less humid than Rio, and part of the wonder of our childhood was the number of showers our relatives took when they visited—five per day to be exact. We did not have air-conditioning, and we used one fan only at night as everyone settled down to sleep. Now I know their motivation was not only cleanliness but also refreshment. Today’s psalm reminds me that just like showering, asking God for forgiveness is something I need to practice often—several times a day if needed.
The superscription ties this psalm to David as he reflects on Nathan’s visit. The visit assured David that God saw his sin and that God required truth from David. Notice how David acknowledges his sinful state; he writes in detail about his need for a deep cleansing from God. His sense of brokenness comes through each line. David recognizes that—Uriah and Bathsheba notwithstanding—his transgression is against God: “Against you, you alone, have I sinned.” Only God can restore him to right relationship.
We also hear David’s desire for restoration. He asks God to create in him a clean heart. Psalm 51 is a good model to follow as we seek forgiveness. We move beyond the simple “I am sorry” to the root of our problem: our need for a clean heart and a right spirit that only God can give. As we ask God to forgive our sins, we can remember that God’s love is steadfast, God’s mercy abundant. Joy and gladness come in God’s ability to make all things new.