reflecting on today's readings

Today’s readings are Romans 14:7-12 and Luke 15:1-10.

In Romans, Paul is pointing out that we will all have to account for ourselves in front of God when we die.

As I grow older I think I become more and more aware of the implications of this fact. What am I going to say? “Sorry God, I messed it up somewhat, hope you don’t mind…. It could have been worse!”

I start to think about all the things I should/could/need to do and wonder where I should start. Time to make an effort before it is too late?

And then I look at the Second Reading from Luke. Such a familiar section just before the “prodigal son” which Jesus used to emphasise the message held in this text. He actually says, “there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.” And I can’t help thinking that Christ is a very generous and loving Saviour.

I wonder to whom Jesus is referring when he mentions those who do not need to repent? Is it another little dig at the Pharisees and an echo of the challenge “Let the one with no sin cast the first stone”? I suspect there is something of both aspects in this passage and again it is echoed in Paul’s words when he tells people not to judge others.

So, while I am trying to avoid judging others and trying to live more like the way God wants me to I will keep examining my life and confessing my sins so that I will be ready to look God in the face and hope that what I have done with my life is not too bad.

Tell me, is there anything more awesome than that thought – looking God in the face….

And then I must admit that I cannot stop imagining the effect that repenting must have on the normal life of heaven. One thing Jesus, if he was talking to us today, might have said is that the Kingdom is like a huge football stadium located very near a church near you. Every time someone repents and asks forgiveness the whole stadium erupts in a great, sustained cheer and yet another party begins.

I don’t know if that would make me more or less likely to want to go to heaven! But it is quite a thought.
Repent today and make the whole of heaven rejoice – how’s that for a slogan? No doubt someone, somewhere has already used it!