Regrets

Today, we begin with the words from verse 17 of chapter 15: “Then he came to himself,” “Then he felt regret,” or “Then he repented.” Something happened in the heart of this man that moved him to action: he got up and returned to his father. He came home.

Take a look as well at Jesus’ words about “repentance” in verses 31 and 32 of chapter 5. Today, some young people might say that the younger son in Jesus’ parable did "a 180.” He completely turned himself around—180 degrees.

From one thing to another. From the old to the new.

In this episode ofThe Chosen, we focus on Matthew. He had a “past.” He was a tax collector, and for most people, that was all that needed to be said. But not for Jesus. Jesus didn’t cross to the other side of the street or spit in his direction. Instead, He invited him: “Come, follow Me.” Matthew obeyed. He did a 180, a complete turnaround—and followed Jesus.

But he still carried a heavy burden of regrets. Things he deeply regretted and was terribly ashamed of.

Mary speaks with him and invites him to believe. Believing is another word for “trusting” or “relying on.” Believing in Jesus, to be precise. Shifting the focus away from yourself and your abilities—or lack thereof—and fully fixing it on Him. That changes everything.

Maybe you also have regrets. Things you feel sorry for when you look back, things that make you feel ashamed. “If only I had…” These could be things that block you, paralyzing you from doing what Jesus is asking of you.

If so, I want to invite you today to look to Jesus. Bring those regrets to Him—tell Him about them. After all, He already knows.

The beauty is that in verse 32 of chapter 5, we read that Jesus didn’t come for the “good” people but for those who need a Savior.

And if you read the story in chapter 15 again, you’ll notice that when the son takes action and returns home to tell his father he made foolish and wrong choices, the father is already waiting for him—with an open heart and open arms.

And He still waits like that for everyone who comes to Him.

Take the following questions to reflect on:

• Are there things you regret?
• Have you already brought them to Jesus?

Prayer: “Lord Jesus, thank You that You know my heart and my life. You know there are things in me that are not beautiful. Things I am ashamed of. Things I would rather not have others know about. Then I think of … [fill in for yourself]. I confess, Lord, and I bring it to You today. Thank You for Your forgiveness. Thank You for holding me in Your arms, for welcoming me. Thank You that I may follow You, despite my failures. That is my desire. Every day. Amen.”