A Clever Word for the Season of Lent:
μετανοέω (metanoeō) To change one’s mind, to repent A Clever Verse for Context “In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent (metanoeō)” (Acts 17:20) Clever Reflections Spiritual The season of Lent is all about repentance: the reorientation of our hearts and minds toward God. The Bible is full of characters who experience repentance (metanoia): Sarah, King David, Jesus’ disciples, the Apostle Paul, and God as well. In the book of Jonah, God is planning to destroy the sinful city of Ninevah. But, when the city’s residents amend their ways and pray for mercy, God changes God’s mind (metanoesan) (Jonah 3:10, Septuagint). What are we to make of this divine show of repentance? Perhaps the gospel we are to receive is that the heart of God tends toward mercy, even to the point of repentance. Literary In one of Plato’s dialogues, Socrates claims to have changed his mind (metanoeō) when he wishes to make a change in his approach to a question (see Plato, Euthydemus 279c). Clever Questions for Further Reflection Is “changing your mind” the same thing as “repenting”? What is God showing us in changing his mind about destroying Ninevah? What are the things that stop us from changing our minds? What makes repentance difficult? A Clever Prayer to Close Holy One, forgive us our sins... As we forgive those who sin against us. Forgiveness is no easy thing, when our hearts have been broken, our feelings hurt, our sensibilities offended. It is hearts like ours that are turned against you and hell bent against one another. Untangle us, Oh God. Teach us to forgive others without resentment. Turn our hearts toward mercy. Repent us. Amen
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In this season of plague, flood, fire, hungry cats, and Advent, we invite you to reflect on the words (such clever words!) of the Prophet John in the book of Revelation. Author Perhaps you have encountered the #Liturgisaur on Instagram or Facebook. He is a small, green, pants wearing, one armed dinosaur who makes the rounds in Gladwin County and beyond, highlighting the various ministries of Christ the King Lutheran Church. Archives
December 2020
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Christ the King Lutheran Church
600 S. M 18 Gladwin, Mi. 48624 989-426-1659 Pastor Emily Olsen pastor.ctkinggladwin@gmail.com |
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