Getting Through the In Betweens- Repentance and Restoration, February 12
Daily Reflections from Inside the Cancer Journey
If you find this devotional inspiring please consider making a donation so we can continue to create powerful devotions for all those impacted by cancer.
Written by Dan Held
“I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you’” (Luke 15:18 NIV).
Up to now in this five-day devotional series we’ve been focusing on the challenges Jesus and His followers experienced while on their journey to Jerusalem, in between His ministry in Galilee and His death, resurrection, and heavenly ascension. Jesus has led them to understand that a difficult journey is one in which you must keep going. Don’t stop moving forward, even if the future feels uncertain in so many ways. Luke’s Gospel notes at every turn how God prepares us for the future while at the same time traveling alongside us with each step of our own “in betweens.”
This last lesson is different.
In Luke chapter fifteen Jesus uses the parable of the lost son to explain yet another challenge in life: those in-between times when we need to turn around and go back—to repent, and then to reconcile with a lost treasure we may have ourselves been guilty of forsaking.
Sometimes this is the hardest lesson of all.
Jesus tells the story of a son who requests his inheritance from his dad so he can move far away and squander his wealth on wild living. When he hits rock bottom—penniless, starving, and homeless—he decides to go back and admit to his dad that he’d made a mess of his life. Mending a broken relationship is not an easy thing.
As we have seen in the past few devotions, trying to go back to easier times or to hide ourselves away from misfortune is a temptation to avoid. But Jesus does call us to go back when necessary—to confess and make amends for those times when we, like the prodigal son, messed up in some way. Unresolved conflicts, past unkind words or neglected friendships need to be restored to the degree that God provides, so healthy relationships can empower you on your walk.
Mended relationships are a priceless treasure, especially through times of struggle like cancer. The need to turn back is out there for each one of us even today. Each of us has sinned by hurting someone through our insensitivity, thoughtlessness, frustration, anger, jealousy and more. Through this story Jesus is calling us to journey back to someone or something we have lost due to our own account. Remember these words of the lost son: “I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you’” (Luke 15:18 NIV). What a blessing to acknowledge the need to make amends with someone we love.
In Luke 15:20 (NIV) we read, “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Jesus also noted to his disciples, “I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:10 NIV). Sometimes getting through the “in betweens” will mean going back a ways and mending broken parts of your journey. Remember, Jesus encourages you that it is worth the trip.
Pray: Loving God, hear my prayer of confession this day for having wronged You and others in the past. As You have strengthened me for the righteous cause of going forward and facing my Jerusalem, so grant me the courage to now turn around and go back where I left a lost friend or loved one in my past. Amen.
Your Turn: Who have you lost or left behind that needs to hear of your repentance today? Why not “set out and go back” now before it becomes too late?
Dan Held, Cancer Caregiver
Dan is a cancer caregiver who lives with his wife (Sue) of 55 years in Dayton, Ohio, where Sue has been free from breast cancer and colon cancer for two years! Dan is an ordained pastor and a licensed therapist with a heart for families touched by cancer at any stage. He is dedicated to promoting the message of more love and less fear in all aspects of his ministry and life. Check out his blog at www.danielkheld.com.
Cancer Companion’s vision for the future is for every person impacted by cancer to know the hope, love, and grace of Jesus and that every oncology team has included faith in their treatment toolbox. By 2033, Cancer Companions will provide 5 million engagements through cancer prayers, scriptures and interactions to those impacted by cancer. Engagements include; social media outreach, e-newsletters, prayer team requests, 30 days of Cancer Prayer event, and volunteer connections.
To learn more about our ministry and the services we provide visit our website by clicking here.
