Before the era of online shopping, in-store shoppers had no choice but to be bound by store return policies. If you cut the tag, you cannot give it back. If you accidentally lose the receipt you cannot give it back. And while some had been lenient over the years to encourage in-person shopping, “change of mind” returns remain to be discouraged.
And while this world frowns on sudden changing of mindset, followers of Jesus like us have gained much by changing our mind. When we “changed our mind” about the sinful life we were once living, and decided to surrender our lives to Jesus, we got the chance to live the abundant life that Jesus came to offer us.
“I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:32
Repentance, or “metanoia” in Greek language, means changing of mind. And this shift in our way of thinking, plus the outright decision to step away from our sinful lifestyle and follow Jesus’ command and teachings reconcile us with God.
“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14
And so, if we have not yet totally surrendered our life to the Lord, and truly committed to following Him, then we should change our mind as it is never too late to repent and be reconciled with God again.
And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38
There is nothing that we can do that could use up all his mercy and patience, because our God is so powerful and sovereign, that His forgiveness, grace, mercy, and love for us will always be sufficient for what we could ever need.
So no matter how sinful we are, or no matter how many times we fall back to sinning after standing up to profess our faith, He still can give us a clean slate. He can still overhaul our souls and allow us to live the best life He has planned for us.
“But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Luke 13:1-5 and Psalm 51:1-12 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: Have you fully committed your life to Jesus?
Conversation with the Lord: Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for calling us to change our minds and be reconciled to you. Sorry for failing to hear you early on and thank you that despite the delays I can now move forward with you. Amen.