Surely in vain have I kept my heart pure; in vain have I washed my hands in innocence (Psalm 73:13).

Did I mention that I really identify with the Psalmist on this one?

When I’m in the kind of mood we talked about yesterday, I inevitably fall into what can only be described as a pity party.  My thoughts run to, “Oh, God, I work so hard for you; I do so much.  Why don’t you honor my amazingosity?”

I could count all the things wrong with that question, but I only have so many fingers and toes, and I’m trying to type.  Suffice to say that, like Isaiah said, all my righteous acts are like filthy rags.

God knows it.

I know it.

No one’s fooling anyone here.

So, Beloved, since you’re humoring me this week and going through exercises you obviously don’t need, follow me on this one.  Check your heart.  Do you find yourself feeling/thinking/acting like you have earned anything from God?  Do you feel a little put out that the Almighty has not deigned to recognize your excellent work on his behalf?

Probably not.

But just on the off chance that you do, may I suggest that you, how do I say this, knock it off?  Because, frankly, your righteousness is only slightly less filthy than mine.

God bless your Tuesday, Beloved.  Keep your head straight.