Some Mistakes Time Can't Erase--Repentance is the Only Apology

Photo taken by Eva Marie Everson in Rutherfordton, NC

"Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:  And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations. . .  " Luke 24:46-47 (KJV).

Some mistakes time can't erase

The chagrin just subsides

The millstone hangs heavy

Round the neck

Regret continually derides.

 

Stumbling blocks to others

No less so to ourselves

Indeed overcome

We've denied Him

Yea, three times, before the cock crowed.

 

No looking back! Endure

Until Thy Kingdom come,

God has graciously provided;

Confess and be ye cleansed

Repentance is the only apology.

 

This poem flowed from my heart during a time of personal trial and heartbreak.  Later I realized that my sentiments synthesized many Scriptures.  Of course, I had alluded to Peter's denial of Christ before the crucifixion.

 

Jesus knew that Peter would deny Him.

 

"'Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail; and when you have turned again, strengthen your brethren.'  And he said to him, 'Lord I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.'  He said, 'I tell you, Peter, the cock will not crow this day, until you three times deny that you know me.'" Luke 22:31-32.

 

Yes, Jesus knew that Peter would deny Him, and He prayed for him, and told him what to do when he realized his sin and returned to Jesus.  God knew that we all would sin and fall short, and He provided a way to Him through Jesus.

 

Repentance is a part of God's merciful plan for our salvation: repentance and salvation go hand in hand.

 

I don't know that we Christians hear enough about repentance, the need to turn from sin and seek God's forgiveness.  Last night I heard Anne Graham Lotz speak, and she told the wonderful story of Jesus and the Cross. One of the things she said in referring to all the suffering and chaos in the world--the "bottomline problem is sin"--and she told of the need for repentance.  Her message was well received.

 

"Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he many send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the time for establishing all that God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old," Acts 3:19-20.

                                               Glorious sunrise courtesy of Eileen DeCamp

 

Praise God, He has provided a way of forgiveness for us, and salvation through Jesus Christ.  May you have His peace today as you embrace the cross and Jesus.  I pray for all of you who read these words.  May we look together for that "time of refreshing".  Blessings to you in Jesus' name.