APOSTOLIC INSIGHT What can the Apostles and Church Fathers tell us about our times? What advice do they have for our problems? Here are some of their thoughts—

Do we mess up? Sure do. Our moral failures dull our minds, hearts, and consciences. The worst part is continued repetitious degrading behavior that leaves us spiritually dead. We often see behaviors on television that might be entertaining to watch, but leave us wrecked if we lived out such behaviors. While we are all guilty of experiences out of the past, the conclusion to be drawn is that we all need the same thing. Forgiveness.

Here’s what the first Christians taught us.

Clement of Rome

Let us then, so long as we are in this world, repent of whatever evils we have done in the flesh, so that we might be saved by the Lord while we yet have time for repentance. For after we have departed from this world, it will no longer be possible to confess, nor will there be then any opportunity to repent.

St. Epharaim

The sins of those who ask for pardon are forgiven. But see that you do not harbor hatred for your brothers when you ask forgiveness of your sins.

St. Thalassios

As wax melts before fire, so does an impure thought before the face of God.

St. Ephraim the Syrian

Do not be ashamed to turn back and say boldly: I will arise and go to my Father. Arise and go!

He will accept you and will not reproach you, but rather rejoice as you return. He awaits you; just do not be ashamed and do not hide from the face of God as did Adam.

Jesus

The right time has come, and the Kingdom of God is near! Turn away from your sins and believe in the Good News. (Mark 1:15)