Thursday October 15, 2020

Begin this new day by praying this prayer out loud. As you are able, consider kneeling as a physical expression of your commitment to Jesus as Lord of your life and the one you desire to lead you this day. Alternatively, you might consider placing a hand over your heart as you pray this prayer.

Lord, grant that I may always allow myself to be guided by You,
always follow Your plans,
and perfectly accomplish Your Holy Will.
Grant that in all things, great and small,
today and all the days of my life,
I may do whatever You require of me.
Help me respond to the slightest prompting of Your Grace,
so that I may be Your trustworthy instrument for Your honor.
May Your Will be done in time and in eternity by me,
in me, and through me. Amen.
— (St. Teresa of Avila, 16th century Carmelite nun)

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Ephesians 4:22-24

Have you ever wondered what “repentance” means? I’d guess many of us conflate repentance and remorse. I certainly have. I’ve often thought of repentance, like much of the Christian life, as a matter of correcting behavior. There is, of course, nothing wrong with doing good. We absolutely should. However, there is more to it than that. The word we translate as repent comes from the Greek word “metanoia.” It literally means “above or beyond the mind.” It means the turning or changing of one’s mind. A more appropriate image might be a u-turn. You see, we don’t merely modify behavior; our very minds are transformed. The Apostle Paul understands the Christian life as a matter of loving God with our minds, bodies, and our choices.

In what way can you u-turn this week? How could you put on a new way of thinking?

When you are finished with your time of reflection, close out this time with this prayer.

Oh God, hear the prayers and petitions of your servants. For Your sake, O Lord, look with favor on this dry and thirsty land. Give ear, O God, and hear; open your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears your Name. We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of Your great mercy. O Lord, listen! Oh Lord, forgive! O Lord, hear and act! For Your sake, O my God, do not delay, because your city and your people bear your name. (Daniel 9:17-19)