Luke 13:3; I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. I’m amazed at how many times I ask the question of an inmate: “What does the word ‘repent’ mean to you?” 95% of the time their answer is, “… to ask for forgiveness.”
Through my reading of the Bible, it appears the Bible’s definition is: to make a personal, absolute, unconditional surrender to God. By repenting according to this definition, it brings about sorrow and regret. But more than that, through repentance, one makes a complete change of direction – a 180◦ turn toward God!
The Greek word in the New Testament for repentance is metanoia, which means, “a change of mind” and “turning towards the light” away from the darkness.
At the Macomb County Jail, we meet with men and women who have lived some very riotous lifestyles. We, as volunteers and lay ministers, have the awesome opportunity to announce to the men and women that, “Jesus did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” ~Luke 5:32 He came for those who live a riotous life style! Now, if they will just turn from that life and turn towards the light, they will be given the gift of righteousness. They will literally be transferred from death to life and all things will become new (2 Corinthians 5:17)!
How can it get any better than that? Thank you, Jesus, for allowing us to be a small part of what You are doing in this mission field located at the corner of Elizabeth and Groesbeck in Mt. Clemens, MI!
From Riotous to Righteous,
Chaplain Steve Malek