The story of the Prodigal Son is about turning one’s life around: Journeying back to God, seeking forgiveness, and obediently abiding in His love. It is also the basic theme of Great Lent. Yet, the only way for this journey to be successful is if we return to God with a broken and contrite heart; for it is through brokenness, remorse, and repentance that a heart is made whole again; and “wholeheartedness” is key to salvation.
In the prophecy of Jeremiah, God says, “They shall be my people, and I will be their God, when they return to me with their whole heart” (Jeremiah 24:6-7). And again, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (24:12).
Because sin causes division and separation from God, repentance is necessary in mending that relationship. As stated in the prophecy of Joel, “Return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning” (Joel 2:12-13).
Sadly, the Church today has far too many halfhearted individuals filling its pews. Instead of offering God the fullness of devotion and faith, they give the bare minimum to the One who provides everything.
To love God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind, you must practice the Christian Faith with attentiveness, dedication, and the full commitment of your heart. Anything less than this falls short. Thus, wholeheartedness becomes the indicator of one’s sincerity and devotion to Jesus Christ.
In other words, your heart is either “all in,” or it’s not in at all.
