“Bismillah (In the name of God)”
I remember as a child, I went to an episcopal school that also had a church for us to go to. The Thursday before Good Friday. The teacher would ask the students to confess their sins on paper. That paper would get collected and taken to the altar. There was a big container where all the papers will get burn as the priest who is celebrating the mass ask Allah (God) to forgive our sins.
Everyone of us commits sins. That is why Allah invites us to ask Him for forgiveness:
Sometimes, we do bad things unintentionally and hurt others in ways that we can’t comprehend or see. Repenting to Allah make us aware of some bad habits or behaviors that we have and also give us a chance to improve our character and the way we deal with people.
Someone once asked me. Why do I have to confess my sins or repent to Allah (God)?
Repentance is not shame, but empowerment. It restores hope, cleanses the heart, and strengthens the connection with Allah (God). Acknowledging or recognizing there is a greater power that controls every aspect of our life give us a chance to learn about the Almighty and His qualities as we strive to adhere to His teachings and words and apply them in our daily life.
Ramadan reminds us: no matter how far we’ve strayed, the door of Allah’s (God) Mercy is always open.
Ask yourself
- What do I need to repent for today?
- How can I sincerely ask Allah (God) for forgiveness?
- How will my returning to Allah (God) change my heart?
Prayer
O Allah, forgive my sins and guide me back to You with a sincere heart. Ameen