Theological Thursdays: Repentance

Yesterday, many Christians had ashes on their heads as a sign of repentance.

Christians, however, are neither the first nor the only people to seek repentance.  In fact, the idea of places ashes on our head is not found in uniquely Christian scripture, but in the texts that we share with Judaism and Islam. 

Repentance is more than saying "sorry," and seeking forgiveness.  It is a turning away from one way and towards another. It represents deep change.

Is there room to practice repentance in a hyper-local blog?

Of course there is.  I will get us started, but you are encouraged to join in the comments section.

We can repent of the practice of putting our own neighborhood (or church, non-profit, etc.) first, to the detriment of others.

We can repent from waiting for a "magic bullet" when we have what we need to succeed already.

We can repent of our judgment of others - be they urban or suburban, believers or non-believers, people of other races, genders, attractions or classes.

We can repent of hopeless despair or blind optimism - both of which hold Buffalo back.

We can repent of seeking a short-term victory at the expense of a long-term good.

It is easy for us to identify greedy or self-centered politicians or business people, but we also must look at ourselves.  We'd rather entertain ourselves than read to a kid.  We'd rather shop by price than buy locally.  We'd rather make "safe" investments than spend our time and money in a place where return is less likely.

Repentance is something we all need to do.

But Buffalo Rising is not just local site - we are also supposed to be positive.  Is repentance positive?

Absolutely.  Like the addict admitting addiction, repentance is the first step to step to healing.  To pretend that we aren't broken is not to be positive, it is to be in denial, but to repent is to admit that there is a problem, and then turn to a solution.

When we practice repentance, we move toward healing.  An honest look at ourselves is the first and hardest step, but as long as it is not the last step, it is a positive one.

Two personal notes:  I have been flattered that some have indicated that they look forward to reading this every Thursday, and that they have noticed when I have missed one.  As I look at my own life (I recently became a Dad) I am realizing that it is unlikely for me to continue on a weekly rhythm.  When I do publish, however, it will always be on a Thursday.  I think I can manage every other week and then some.

Secondly, a number of churches (including mine) co-sponsor a very fun monthly theolgical discussion at the Nickle City housing co-op.  This Friday, starting at 7:30, we take on the favorite topic of many: sex.  Bring a drink and/or a snack to share and join the fun.  The group includes evangelicals, atheists, and a scattering of perspectives within and beyond, so there is room for you regardless of your theological, sexual, or gender orientation.