CWW Week 3 - Day 2 - Repentance

Scripture

Luke 15:7 (NKJV)

“I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.”

I used to think that there was no way my past could ever be forgiven. We probably share that loathing of ourselves. I could happily accept that God could forgive others but I didn’t deserve His grace no way.

In our Recovery Road program over the past decade and a half we have seen many struggle to accept grace…..but then the magic happens and the light goes on. That’s when God can use them to reach others by the positive changes in their lives.

In Luke 15:7, Jesus reveals a profound truth about the heart of God and the nature of repentance. He illustrates this truth through the parable of the lost sheep, emphasising the immense joy in heaven when a single sinner repents and turns back to God. This verse invites us to explore the depths of God’s love, His relentless pursuit of reconciliation, and the transformative power of repentance.

God’s joy over repentance underscores His unwavering love for each individual. It highlights His desire for relationship with us and His willingness to pursue us even in our waywardness. In the parable, the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine sheep to search for the one that is lost, demonstrating God’s relentless pursuit of the lost and His determination to bring them back into His fold.

Repentance, in its essence, is a turning away from sin and a turning toward God. It involves a recognition of our need for Him, a deep sorrow for our wrongdoing, and a sincere desire to change. When we repent, we open ourselves to God’s grace and mercy, allowing Him to cleanse and renew us. It’s a transformative process that leads to reconciliation with God and restoration of our relationship with Him.

Questions:

• Reflect on a time when you experienced the transformative power of repentance in your own life. How did God’s grace and forgiveness impact you, and what changes did you see as a result of repentance?
• Consider the parable of the lost sheep. How does God’s pursuit of the lost sheep resonate with your own understanding of His love for you? In what ways have you experienced God’s relentless pursuit of you?
• Think about someone in your life who may be far from God and in need of repentance. How can you partner with God in prayer and action to reach out to them with His love and grace?

Prayer:

Dear Lord, Papa God.

 We thank you for your boundless love and mercy that extends to each of us, no matter how far we may have wandered. Thank you for rejoicing over our repentance and for the gift of reconciliation through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to fully grasp the depth of your love and the magnitude of your joy when we turn back to you. Give us compassionate hearts to reach out to those who are lost and in need of your grace, that they too may experience the joy of repentance and restoration. May our lives be a testimony to your unfailing love and your desire for reconciliation with all humanity. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

As you meditate on this passage, may you be reminded of the overwhelming joy in heaven over repentant hearts and inspired to share God’s love with those around you.

Have a great day with Jesus.

Graham Hood.