“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.” Acts 3:19
In a recent story from Yahoo News titled “Greenock Runner Achieves Legend Status After Conquering Epic 185 km Race, it was reported that Greenock Glenpark Harriers runner, Viki Smith, was thrilled to have conquered a grueling trail race on a Mediterranean island better known as one of Europe’s busiest holiday destinations.
The idea to participate in the race was sparked during a September 2024 holiday in Menorca. Viki and her partner, Andy, discovered the path outside their hotel and ran a 10-kilometre section. Curiosity led them to research the trail, where they discovered the race—seven solo distance races and one relay. Viki decided to take on the full 185-kilometre challenge. After entering in January, Viki had 100 days to prepare. She acknowledged the challenge of the race, stating: “This race doesn’t have the most elevation I’ve ever faced—approximately 3,500 metres—but the unforgiving terrain is unreal and I have never experienced anything like it.”
What began as a casual 10K jog during a vacation turned into a 100-day training sprint toward a 185-kilometer challenge. Viki conquered the unforgiving terrain in just under 35 hours and she was thrilled with her result.
“Little old me got round this epic challenge in 34 hours 51 minutes and finished first V50 out of 13 who started the race,” she said. “I’m 100 percent taking the ‘legend’ status given to all finishers. I am so absolutely chuffed with myself.”
Chuffed? Now there’s a word that’s not heard very often. In fact, I’d never even heard the word and I had to look it up. As I expected, based on the context in which it was used, chuffed means “quite pleased or delighted.” Which is exactly what you’d expect someone to be upon completing 115 miles under 35 hours.
Sadly though, chuffed isn’t the only word that’s not mentioned frequently. In a growing number of churches, the word repentance isn’t mentioned much either. And while the world will define repentance as a feeling or expression of sincere regret or remorse about one’s wrongdoing or sin, the Bible goes a bit further and says that repentance means a turning away from sin and toward God. It’s a deliberate change of heart and mind that leads to action—like Zacchaeus.
“Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, ‘Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.’” Luke 19:8
Zacchaeus was a corrupt tax collector enriched by dishonest gain. But when he encountered Jesus, his heart changed—and so did his actions. He didn’t just feel bad; he made restitution. That’s biblical repentance. Jesus said in response to his repentance:
“Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham.” Luke 19:9
Zacchaeus wasn’t saved by his good works, but his works showed that something real had happened in his heart. His faith was active. He turned FROM sin and turned TOWARD righteousness.
Sadly, many today reject or downplay repentance. But the Bible is clear:
“For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.” 2 Corinthians 7:10
Sin creates a gap between us and God, and repentance is the bridge back. It’s not just about guilt—it’s about allowing God to work a transformation. So today, don’t wait for the Word to show up on a Sunday morning sermon. Open God’s Word and let His Spirit change your heart. Examine your life. Have you been born again? If so, have you wandered from the path? Where do you need to turn back?
There’s a race ahead of you far more important than 185 kilometers. But the reward is far greater, too—eternal life, peace with God, and true freedom.
Reflection Question:
Have you settled for feeling sorry about sin, or have you truly repented and changed direction?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that repentance is absolutely necessary for our salvation and for a close walk with You. And that although the world says repentance is merely a feeling, we know that true repentance leads to action. True repentance causes us to turn away from our sins and to turn back to You so that our sins might be blotted out and we might be made clean. Help us to see when we’ve transgressed against You, Lord, so that we might turn from sin and turn to You. Help us also to make restitution to those who have been harmed by our sin. It’s in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!
