and rend your hearts and not your garments.” Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster. (Joel 2:13)
The Israelites have broken away from the faith, forsaking God and His ways. For decades they have done what is right in their own eyes. Nobody sought God. But the Lord sought them, and is now calling them to repentance.
We too have broken away. We too have been lost. We too have neglected the way for far too long. Render your hearts broken before God because of your sins. Acknowledge that you have stepped away from His path. Rend your hearts and not your garments. Be truly broken inside–do not hide behind religious pretense. As James puts it, “Be wretched and mourn and weep” (James 4:9). For only then can Gods mercy and forgiveness be showered upon you. The Lord is gracious to those who humble themselves before Him. Repent.
I thank You for Your wonderful grace, Lord. Do not ever let me take it for granted.
Tales and Rhymes 