Years ago in Jamaica, an artiste had a hit song which included the lyrics, “… show me yuh teeth, plastic smile can’t work”. Perhaps these days the author of the song might have a sequel referencing false apologies, or lack of apologies from public officials as well as leaders in the secular and spiritual world whose actions are often the fodder for news headlines these days.
It’s always easy to point fingers at ‘those’ people, but it behooves us to remember that we are each accountable for our actions, as indicated by today’s Holy Nougat
“and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto Jehovah your God; for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abundant in lovingkindness, and repenteth him of the evil.” Joel 2:13 ASV
Sackcloth and ashes were the official indicator for grief and repentance. In some cases, parts of the clothing was ripped (perhaps the sleeves?). But that was the visible sign, the public show; the ‘get out of punishment’ action. It didn’t always mean one was truly repentant. For then, like now, repentance was truly a matter of the heart.
Repentance is the recognition that an action was wrong; resulting in a desire to change the behavior, while taking responsibility for the original wrong. It’s a little more than, “I’m sorry, it won’t happen again” although that would be a good starting point for us nowadays.
Unfortunately, for many of us, repentance (even to each other) is hard, more so repenting before God. But what if we are convicted of our wrongs within our hearts? Do we silence our consciences for the sake of our pride? And what about those who give lip service apologies knowing full well that we are far from sorry. At the end of the day, it’s God who makes the call – not us. And unless we receive a special Word, we continue to pray God’s healing of our cast iron hearts.
For ourselves, we check our motive. Why are we participating in a public display of sorrow, is it genuine? Do I even feel I’ve wronged anyone in the first place? Moreover, is pride preventing me from saying I’m sorry? When we answer the question/s honestly, true repentance has the opportunity to flourish.
