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BASEL CHRONICLES | EDITORIAL | APRIL 2021

of theirs was not because of their bad
choices, or an outcome of their selsh

motives, but it was their courageous deci-
sion, a preferred option to suffer for the
sake of others. Their choice and their

decision to deny self, was strongly
grounded on being obedient to God,

believing in God, and thereby being cou-
rageous to chart a new path, to establish
a new order against the dominant views

and normal human tendencies. Thus,
following the path of self-denial is not an

easy decision, nor an only available
option. It is driven by our deep faith in
God, to deny our selsh motives, agen-

das, and plans and follow God, to obey
and practice His values and thereby

strive to establish, God’s kingdom as
against the world’s order.

Self-Denial demands Change and

Repentance: Prophet Joel speaks of the
blessing that is possible for Israel, if only

they would repent. Considering the
blessings that come with repentance, one
might think that people would eagerly,

without hesitation, run to God’s open
invitation to change and repent.

However, that’s not the case. Despite the
promise of blessing, we, including
ancient Israel, are reluctant to repent.

Why are we reluctant to repent even
when we know that blessings are wait-

ing?” This is because repentance necessi-
tates recognition and admission of guilt,

wrongdoings, being sorry for the hurt
caused. With a false sense of self, sur-

rounded, one can only live with a sense
of denial. It demands Self-denial.