Prayer
- is primarily a relationship with God
- is a process of relating to God through scripture, nature, music, art, service of others
- is meant to grow in depth from acquaintanceship to friendship, to divine union
- is both an individual and collective movement of the Spirit in every Christian community
- is meant to be continuous
Repentance may also be called “conversion of life” or “metanoia”
Related Concepts
Reflection
Description
Repentance focuses on the nature of the kingdom of God. Everyone suffers from the human condition. We have lost the key to happiness and are looking for it where it cannot possibly be found. If we look to emotional programs that promise happiness through cultural symbols, there may be plenty of help because many others are making the same mistake.
When we look for the key to happiness within, where it can actually be found, we may find ourselves alone, abandoned by friends and relatives. Lack of human support in the spiritual journey is one of its heaviest trials.
Repentance supports contemplation. The season of Lent is about repentance, letting go of our false self value system, and opening more and more to the values of the Gospel.
Reflection: Listening
Repentance is about letting go of false self motivation. The basic meaning of the term is: “Change the direction in which you are looking for happiness.”
Reflection: Reflecting
Where do you seek the kingdom? In what ways might you let go of your false value system?
Reflection: Responding
In everything, seek the kingdom of God and its justice first.
