Repentance for a New Year

I can remember my first time hearing Luther's famous first thesis: "When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, 'Repent,' he willed the entire life of believers to be one of repentance." While others around me offered solemn nods, the less-sacred thought flashed across my mind, Well, that sure sounds like fun. I knew the repentant life to be good for me, as I knew going to the dentist to be good for me. I did not look forward to a life of feeling bad about myself. Wasn't it punishment to bring the dog's nose back to its mess? My childlike faith heard, "The Christian life is one of sitting in the corner, muttering apologies." Necessary? Perhaps. Exciting? Far from.