As we start our second week of Lent, we focus on a key aspect of spiritual growth: repentance. Through repentance, we are called to turn away from sin and return to God, embarking on a journey of transformation and renewal.
The call to repentance echoes loudly and clearly throughout the Old and New Testaments. In the Hebrew scriptures, the word “repent” often translates to “turn” or “return”. It embodies the idea of turning away from evil and embracing the good: “Repent! Turn from your idols and renounce all your detestable practices!” (Ezekiel 14:6).
In the New Testament, the Greek term for repentance, metanoia, carries a double meaning: a change of mind and remorse. In fact, Jesus inaugurated His ministry with the call to repentance: “The time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the Gospel” (Mark 1:15).
It’s not enough to acknowledge our sins. True repentance also involves demonstrating genuine remorse and committing to a new direction. It requires brokenness, honesty, and willingness to change.
During our busy lives, it’s easy to get stuck in our usual routines and overlook the areas in need of transformation within ourselves. Lent grants us a much-needed pause, a chance to slow down, reflect and look inward. Just as Jesus called His disciples to follow Him on the path of repentance and belief, we are also invited to join this journey.
As we navigate through Lent, we are called to reflect on the deep implications of repentance. We are called to turn away from sin and embrace God’s Kingdom values. How can we recognise where we have gone off track and make things right with God and others? How can we let go of old habits that hold us back from living fully in God’s grace? Let us embrace repentance as a powerful tool for growth and renewal, allowing it to guide us towards a deeper alignment with God’s will.
Heavenly Father,
As we repent and seek your forgiveness, let us also extend grace and mercy to others. Give us the strength to turn away from our sins and make amends. Fill us with your love and compassion so that we can reflect your light in a world that desperately needs your healing touch.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
