And they promised God saying, “Then God has given even to the Gentiles the repentance that leads to life.” — Acts 11:18.
When I make it to church, I recite a confession with the other parishioners that includes the words, “We humbly repent.” I have to admit that this recitation seems too easy to me. I not only get by with a group recitation, I don’t have to get into any specifics and I don’t have to say any Hail Marys or light any candles. I don’t think my recitation is what our verse means when it says “the repentance that leads to life.” Then again, maybe why I think it sounds easy is because my confession is much longer than others.
True repentance that leads to forgiveness is more than a few words murmured with others. Perhaps that’s why I need to get to church early and to say more to God than “I humbly confess.” My old football coach used to shout, “play like you mean it.” I suspect repentance requires me to “say it like I mean it.”
While the group recitation of our confession is a valuable part of our communal worship, I’ve begun to realize that true repentance, as described in Acts 11:18, requires a deeper level of personal reflection. Beyond the words we speak together, I’m challenged to identify specific areas where I’ve fallen short, to acknowledge my shortcomings with genuine regret, and to actively seek ways to make amends. As I delve into this process, I’ve found that it’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. It’s in these moments of honest self-examination that I truly experience the transformative power of God’s grace and forgiveness.
“—- and are heartily sorry for these our misdoings”
Your words outstrip my Methodist ones, but bring new life to me as I read your meditation. Thank you, Webb
Thank you!