“Jesus answered them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”

Luke 5:31-32

God’s encouragement…

I remember the first time my disobedience blew up in spectacular fashion. I was in the first grade. We had moved to a new subdivision, and the elementary school was under construction. Until it was finished, classes were held in regular houses set up with classrooms. They were across the street from the future school and dubbed “cottage” schools. The streets in the area were a sea of mud. Planks had been placed at a corner for kids to cross on. My mom was crystal clear I was to cross at the planks. However, my six-year-old-self determined I could cross right in front of my cottage if I ran really fast.

Things did not go according to my plan. I made it across, but my shoes were stuck fast in the mud somewhere behind me. I hadn’t considered this possibility. To rescue my shoes, I had to go back into the mud. My mud-caked socks and shoes could not be hidden. I entered my classroom with my head down. I wished with all my heart that muddy footprints led to every desk, but when I peeked, I saw only my muddy footprints. I was so embarrassed! Facing my friends and teacher was hard. Facing my mom was even harder. I did not want to disappoint her.

Years have passed since that day, but I still remember it. I have a soft spot for myself and my very public lesson. I understand now that pride had already taken up residence in my heart. I was certain I knew better than my mom. Embarrassment taught me I did not. From this I know that repentance also resided in me. I didn’t know that word, but I knew I was responsible and I was sorry I hadn’t listened. This experience and others like it show me Jesus has been with me from my earliest days. He has loved me and taught me through each one. I treasure in my heart that He came as our physician, knowing our sin-sickness and responding to our need. Jesus has taught me that repentance does bring healing, to those who follow Him.

To assemble a list to link to other posts from a category, click the category tag at the top of the page, or visit the Posts page.

Image: original pen and ink by Robin Lybeck: Repentance Treasure