The Hebrew culture displayed repentance, regret, anger, grief & sorrow by rending or tearing their garments. Israel walked away from The Lord & God was about to unleash judgment on them but graciously calls them to repentance. “…Rend your heart & not your garments. Return to the Lord your God…” (Joel 2:13) Israel’s outward display meant nothing to God because there was no internal repentance. They were simply going through the motions – religiously & hypocritically. God isn’t looking for an outward display of “religion” but for an inward “heart change”. He is looking for people who are broken over their sin & desperate to change. God wants all of our emotions, intentions, affections, thoughts, will… He wants all of our heart.
