Want to make your church shrink? Just preach the message of repentance. At least that is the thinking of most contemporary church leaders. But, is it true? If people are called to repent from their sins, will they run from the church? Perhaps... We live in a consumer oriented culture where we often avoid the "truths" that cause us emotional distress, so perhaps John the Baptist's message would scare people off in today's world.
Therein lies the challenge: People need to be saved from their sins--their foolish behavior--their self-destructive tendencies--and their appetite for darkness. In this upside-down, inside-out world, our culture tends to glorify the very activities that create the most sorrow and destruction in people's lives, while avoiding the unpopular, but life-giving truths that set people free. This is how convoluted and twisted the thinking of our culture has become.
The truth that sets us free is good news! The turning away from destructive behavior is good news! Leaving the darkness behind for a life of walking in the light is cause for celebration!! The message of repentance is more than a warning--it is an invitation to an abundant life! Repentance starts with a revelation of truth. In the case of the Prodigal Son, he embraced the truth...the servants in the house of his Father, were better off than he was. Eating at the table of his Father was better than dipping into the pig trough. When life is measured by truth, the message of repentance is compelling and a comfort.
Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, I have often shied away from speaking the truth for fear of being offensive. Teach me how to effectively speak the truth in love. Show me how to teach the idea of repentance in such a way as to pierce the deceit of the enemy. I long for the Sons and Daughters that are caught up in the darkness to see the light and to be set free! May my heart be broken for them and use me to touch them with Your love! Amen"
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