“The New Testament word for repentance means changing one’s mind so that one’s views, values, goals, and ways are changed and one’s whole life is lived differently”, J.I. Packer states. “The change is radical, both inwardly and outwardly; mind and judgment, will and affections, behavior and lifestyle, motives and purposes, are all involved. Repenting means starting a new life.”

Lent is a blessed time: we can slow down and actively reflect on our spiritual journey. We can chance the course of our lives.

Yet even now, says the LORD,
return to me with all your hearts,
with fasting, with weeping,
and with sorrow;
tear your hearts
and not your clothing.
(Joel 2:12-13, CEB)

We are called to examine our hearts and minds, our whole lives in respect to God. Is God’s will our will? If not, what should be done?

Lent is a blessed opportunity: we are called to turn back to God and weave faith into our lives. We are called to repent, to change our hearts – not just our clothing.

And here’s why: God is kind and merciful.
He takes a deep breath, puts up with a lot,
This most patient God, extravagant in love,
always ready to cancel catastrophe.
Who knows? Maybe he’ll do it now,
maybe he’ll turn around and show pity.
Maybe, when all’s said and done,
there’ll be blessings full and robust for your God!
(Joel 2:13-14, MSG)

George Whitefield explains “True repentance will entirely change you; the bias of your souls will be changed, then you will delight in God, in Christ, in His Law, and in His people.” True repentance welcomes the Holy Spirit to work in us and change us inside out. Are you ready for radical change?

Lent is a blessed paradox: as we give up something we like, we receive something we did not even know we needed. As we take something on, our load becomes lighter.

 

Gracious God,
Thank you for being ever-faithful,
calling us back to you.
Help us to repent and really mean it.
Forgive us!
Show us the right path!
Renew our spirit!
Give us a new life!
In Jesus’ name,
Amen

Q4U: Are you giving something up for Lent? Or are you taking something on for Lent?

Be abundantly blessed, my fellow pilgrim, on your lenten journey!

Giving thanks today for
#131 God who wants to be found.
#132 getting to know God deeper
#133 praying on my knees
#134 this lenten prayer experience
#135 God’s faithfulness
#136 time to repent
#137 spiritual spring cleaning
#138 intentional spiritual formation
#139 God’s patience towards us
#140 God’s amazing love for us

Linking up today with

Some parts of this post have previously been published 3/2010. Image courtesy of Carl Spitzweg (1808-1885),”Ash Wednesday“/wikipedia.