The Last to Accuse, the First to Change

Jesus the Compassionate Redeemer

How does it feel to be hopelessly lost—adrift at sea, stranded in the desert, or trapped in the mountains without provisions, facing the mounting terror of an early death? Survivors of such ordeals often recall that amid their struggle, in the depths of hunger and thirst, and in the pain of isolation, a profound reckoning takes place. The meaning of life is suddenly laid bare.

One author who studied this phenomenon observed:

“Those lost in the wilderness, at sea, or facing slow, painful death often turn inward. They reflect on their past, searching for deeper meaning. They revisit their relationships, hearing again the words of love and hate they once spoke. They relive moments of meanness, pettiness, and dishonesty. They also recall acts of kindness, cooperation, and love. In these moments, they seek answers. They long for reconciliation—with themselves, with others. They crave deliverance. They yearn to be forgiven their trespasses and to make right the wrongs they have done. And…