Repentence

 

Sorry

"Sorry"
Is all that you can't say
Years gone by and still
Words don't come easily
Like sorry, like sorry                    Tracy Chapman

 

Some people go through their whole lives unable to say “sorry”. Such a small word that can change lives and relationships. What a difference it makes to the whole process of forgiveness.

I firmly believe that Jesus honours those who are willing to humble themselves and make peace. The Bible is full of verses prescribing the course of action when we are wronged.

1 Peter 3:8-4:19

Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” ...

Proverbs 20:22

Do not say, “I will repay evil”; wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you.

Luke 23:34 

And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments.

Colossians 3:13

“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.”

Matthew 6:14

“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you.”

Ephesians 4:32

“Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”

 

This Easter time, as we remember the terrible suffering of Jesus. He was betrayed, forsaken,  mocked, condemned, scourged and finally crucified. On the cross He bore the sin and suffering of all mankind, an unimaginable burden. He felt forsaken by His Father God.

He could have called legions of angels in His defence, but He didn’t.

He died for those who persecuted and despised Him.

Beside Him were two other crosses. The man on one mocked Jesus. The man on the other admitted that he was a thief, a sinner. Jesus promised this man eternal life with Him in Heaven.

In repentance we come again to the cross, confessing our sin. We lay our cares and heartaches and difficult situations down at the cross, knowing that He bore so much more than we will ever be called upon carry.

Thank You Jesus.

May God bless the readership here this Easter.