Repentance: A Terrifying Threat or a Loving Invitation?Sýnishorn

Just before Jesus’ grand arrival on earth, John the Baptist was sent by God with an invitation for people to prepare their hearts for the coming Messiah. His message? Repentance.

Unfortunately for many of us, the word repentance conjures up the image of a zealous street preacher waving a “turn or burn” poster, imposing on his frightened audience the threat of eternal damnation. Fortunately, there is a better way to look at repentance.

If two people stood facing one another and one of them were to draw a large number six on the floor, it’s obvious that the person standing opposite to them would see a number nine. Similarly, the power of perspective can help us see repentance: not as a terrifying threat, but rather as a loving invitation from God the Father. His invitation is for us to enjoy an abundant life, both here on earth and one day in heaven.

In its original form, the word repentance simply means “to change one’s mind”, and honestly the only hope we have of experiencing true change is with the help of the Holy Spirit. As you and I respond positively to God’s love and His working in our hearts, the Holy Spirit begins to shape how we think, which will lead to a change in how we live. As this change increases so will our desire to turn away from anything that dishonours God.

Make no mistake, what Jesus did on the cross was no light matter. If we fail to turn from our sin and place our trust in Him, a dreadful eternity awaits us.

But the choice is ours; will our relationship with God be motivated by fear or by faith?

Pray: Jesus, thank you first and foremost for your immeasurable love for me, and for taking upon yourself the punishment for my sins on the cross. Today I’m asking that you give me a fresh perspective on repentance. Help me to live motivated by faith and not by fear. Please reveal anything that I need to turn away from, so that I can follow you wholeheartedly. Amen.