I don't know why sin is such a bad word. Obviously we're all sinners, the more so the more we try to deny it. But that's not the issue. At issue is whether there is more mercy in God than sin in us. And according to Paul, just as love is stronger than death, so forgiveness is stronger than sin. That may be the hardest thing to believe, for guilt is the last stronghold of pride. "Guilty" represents my opinion of myself. "Forgiven" may represent yours or God's opinion, and I'm too proud to let others do for me what I cannot do for myself. Occasionally it is more blessed to receive than to give. At least it takes more humility.

— William Sloane Coffin, Credo