LATE REMORSE FOR WHAT HE DID
Last month, Joseph DeAngelo, the infamous Golden State Killer, was sentenced to twelve life sentences plus eight years, without parole. DeAngelo had pleaded guilty to thirteen murders and dozens of rapes committed during the 1970s and 1980s. Throughout the trial and sentencing, he had not shown remorse for his actions. But on the day of sentencing, after receiving statements from victims and their families, DeAngelo said to the courtroom, “I’ve listened to all your statements, each one of them, and I am truly sorry to everyone I hurt.”
GREAT REMORSE FOR WHAT THEY DID
In Egypt, Joseph’s brothers are brought before him to purchase grain for their families suffering in the famine. They do not recognize Joseph, who is now grown, dressed as an Egyptian high official, and using an interpreter to speak with them. He accuses them of treachery and spying, and they express to each other their belief that this is God’s way of punishing them for how they had treated Joseph. Their deep remorse over their actions, overheard in secret by Joseph, causes him to embark on a course that will lead to their great blessing.
Questions
- How does it feel when someone wrongs you without remorse?
- When have you seen true remorse restore a broken relationship?
- What is the role of remorse in the Christian life?
