To redeem (turn in for value) means doing acts that cost either emotionally, physically or monetarily. If there is no "cost" it is not a mikva(good deed that only you know about). If you lend me $20 not knowing when I could pay it back it makes a difference whether it is your grocery money for the next week or pocket change. As St Sunrises Over the Mountains once said only the Chief would ring the bell 3 times in a row. (ringing the Bell in a downtown rowdyass bar means drinks for the house)
thanx,
bill