The Fragrance of Repentance

The Church talks a good talk about what ‘not to do’ in our lives. What happens when we fall or even just ‘slip up’ a little? The Church isn’t the best at helping us in our repentance. Maybe it is because we don’t understand the concept. Maybe it’s because we don’t want to repent.

Most of us enjoy the life we live until something ‘beyond our control’ gets in the way. Natural disasters and serious illness can go a long way to making us ‘rethink’ our lives. Losing a job and family disruptions are no better. But let’s face it. Most of us don’t think WE are the problem.

Today is the Feast of Pelagia the Righteous who was known for her immoral life before becoming a Christian. Once she learned of God’s mercy and love she lived the remainder of her life as a recluse in repentance. She died a righteous death leaving behind fragrant relics.

We often hear about a fragrance coming from saints, sometimes even myrrh. This is the fragrance of repentance. This is how God lets us know He is pleased with the saint we are venerating. Of course, not all saints are fragrant, but it is common enough.

Repentance isn’t an action. Repentance is a state of mind. Pelagia decided she no longer wanted to be a temptation to others. Maybe this is why so many of us are not successful in our repentance. Maybe we haven’t changed our mind yet.

In today’s reading from Saint Paul, we hear him explain that Christ is “honored” in his body. Saint Paul was a great persecutor of the Church, yet he chose to accept Christ’s invitation to change his mind. He totally dedicated the remainder of his life to Christ, just like Pelagia.

Brethren, I shall not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If it is to be life in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again. Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ.

Philippians 1:20-27

My invitation to you today is to consider what you really want for your life. Repentance begins in your heart, not your actions. Spend a few extra minutes today in silent prayer asking God to inspire your heart. Take a deep breath and let the fragrance of repentance enter your heart.

It’s ok if you didn’t live a perfect life before today. None of us have. Saint Paul and Saint Pelagia certainly didn’t live perfect lives before their repentance. What matters now is what your heart wants from God. If you want God, then follow your heart to Him.

The first few steps will be a bit bumpy because the world will try to stop you. Pelagia lived as a recluse. Saint Paul was not trusted at first. In time, God was honored in their bodies. In time both (and many more since) were honored by God. The same is possible for you.