15/02/08

Repentance

Matthew 4:17 - From that time Jesus began to proclaim, `Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.'

How much church can you attend without hearing the word "repent?" I haven't heard a sermon on repentance for years. Yet when I read the gospel it seems the first words out of the mouths of John and Jesus are "repent - for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

I believe I have the answer - repentance is an unpopular topic - ranking with chastity, tooth cavities and income tax. You see, repentance means turning away from sin - but sin is a constant source of pleasure, ego satisfaction, pride, and revenge. Not only demanding I give these attractive activities up, it plainly means I was wrong - I am a sinner and deserving of hell. I don't like to admit I'm wrong. But down is the way up. I am never saved because I am right - I become right only through the salvation I receive in Christ.


[ Prayer for the Day ]

Father my ego has been bloodied many times by your stick as You taught me that sin and relationship with You cannot co-exist. Bring us to humble repentance. Amen.


The Word of God was given free to us, therefore we should also share it freely with others.
(All rights are with God)