When Israel sinned against God, the Lord said to Israel, "Come back'' (Hosea 14: 2-3). For Israel, the way back to God was through repentance in words and actions. No world power, no military might, and no god made with their own hands could ever save them (v 4). Confession was necessary, if ever their iniquity was to be forgiven. God promised their return with - healing, love, refreshment, restoration, abundance, protection, splendour, and fruitfulness (vv 5-8).

King David committed adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband killed. In the throes of guilt, he begged for the "mercy'' of God and asked God to "wash ... cleanse'' and "purify'' him(Ps 51: 1-2, 6-7). He asked not to be cast aside from God nor be deprived of God's holy spirit (v 11). Instead, he requested to be given "a pure heart'', "a steadfast spirit'', the "joy'' of God's help, and "a spirit of fervour'' to sustain him (v 10, 12).

What about us? Will we have the humility and the courage to come to our senses, get up, and return to God? (Lk 15;11-32) Knowing the answers to these questions, now our response is to take Jesus' word "Be on your guard!" seriously. When we do that, we will be able to offer to God "our words of praise'' (Hos 14:3
Ps 51:15).