If the Bible could be condensed into one word, what would it be?  A lot of words come to my mind.  One of them is Immanuel... God with us.  One of them is love.  Afterall, God is love (1 John 4:8).

 

However, one particular word comes to my mind as a strong contender.  It is the one theme word used most consistently by every single prophet I can think of.  Think of of the messages given by this list of prophets... Noah, Abraham, Moses, Elijah, Elisha, Zechariah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Jonah, John the Baptist.  I've left out a score of others.  What was the one message that unified every single one of these men who delivered God's word?

 

That one word was... REPENT.

 

I know as well as anyone that the whole Bible can't be put into one word and moreover it shouldn't be.  The Bible is like a diamond with many facets.  Each facet shines.  Each facet catches our eye and delivers a beautiful message.

 

However, I cannot fail to notice that one word comes through the Old Testament and the New Testament so very strongly and repeatedly.  Repent.

 

In this day and age, it seems to be the message we most need to hear and obey.  But, the word "repent" is offensive to the ear.  I don't even hear it very often.  It seems it's only used in connection with the words of the ancient prophets in connection to ancient civilizations.  But, we need to hear it too.  We need to hear it it loud and clear in connection to our own times and in connection to our own land.

 

I smile knowing I am speaking to the choir.  You already know that God wants us to repent.  You see it in the storms, earthquakes and financial upheavals.  But still, the word "repent" needs to get out.

 

I share this with you in love for your heartfelt consideration.

 

YBIC

Bruce Baber