Most people don’t equate repentance with the words “fresh” or “liberating.” Crying “God, have mercy on me, a sinner!” seems like a miserable way to start the year. But not according to Jesus. Jesus said that those who humbly confess their need of God’s grace (instead of self- righteously comparing themselves to others) would be justified and exalted in the eyes of God. Perhaps, then, repentance is the most liberating way to live!