When Dr. Carey faced a serious illness, someone asked him which scripture should be used for his funeral if he didn't recover. He answered, "Oh, I'm such a poor sinful person that I'm unworthy of any sermon. But if one must be preached, let it be from the words: 'Have mercy on me, God, according to your lovingkindness; according to your tender mercies blot out my sins.'" In that humble spirit, he requested his gravestone read simply, 'William Carey, Born August 17th, 1761: Died - - A wretched, poor, and helpless worm, On your kind arms I fall.' Even the most honored believers can only approach God because of His grace. They know well that at their best, they are still just men.

Empty boats float high, but heavily loaded ones sit low in the water. Those who merely pretend can boast, but true followers of God ask for mercy over their shortcomings. We need God to have mercy on everything we do: our prayers, our preaching, our charity, and even our holiest moments. Israel sprinkled blood on their doorposts as well as the sanctuary and altar because sin creeps into everything. The blood of Jesus purifies us from that stain. If we need mercy for our duties, how much more for our sins? How comforting to know God's mercy is ready to restore us and bring joy to our brokenness!