The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness.

— Romans 1:18

For my iniquities have overwhelmed me; they are a burden too heavy to bear.

— Psalm 38:4

Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation without regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

— 2 Corinthians 7:10

Now as for you, son of man, tell the house of Israel that this is what they have said: ‘Our transgressions and our sins are heavy upon us, and we are wasting away because of them! How can we live?’

— Ezekiel 33:10

36 Therefore let all Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ!”

37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and asked Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”

38 Peter replied, “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 2:36-38

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, mercy and salvation from Christ to you.

On the one hand, though generally people view deep sorrow and paralyzing grief negatively, however the gravity of personal and societal offense against God represents heavy truth that must be addressed and borne. The weightiness of sin helps us realize how much we need the Savior whom God has provided. The world tolerates a brand of sorrow that leaves people without a viable solution. However, godly sorrow leads to repentance and salvation expressions of God’s grace.

On the other hand, our realization of sinning against God and nailing the sinless Jesus on cross for paying our ransom will bring deep and pervasive mourning in our hearts. Understanding the depth of our sin fuels immense love and humble gratitude toward our Savior Jesus Christ because it highlights the magnitude of Christ’s love and grace. When we recognize the weight of our brokenness, our Savior’s forgiveness transforms from a mere concept into a radical, life-altering rescue for us.