The Gift of Forgiveness

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." - Ephesians 4:32

As believers, we are called to embrace forgiveness both receiving it from God, and extending it to others. The challenge is, forgiveness may require us to look past the hurtful words, betrayal and offences that may have left lasting scars on our hearts.

It's important to understand though, that forgiveness does not diminish the pain we have experienced, or justify the wrong done to us. Instead forgiveness, releases us from the burden of bitterness and resentment that comes with unforgiveness. When we forgive, we allow God's healing and restoration to take place within our hearts.

The choice to forgive is an act of strength, not defeat, and in the process of forgiveness, we will be set free from the chains of anger and hatred, and open ourselves up to receive God's peace and joy.

Let's look to Jesus and see how He forgives in John 8:1-11, which took place in the dusty streets of Jerusalem. A woman who had been caught in adultery is thrust before Jesus by the Pharisees, who are eager to test Him. The Pharisees insist that the law demands the woman's condemnation, yet, Jesus responds not with harsh words but with a quiet challenge:

"Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her." ( John 8:7)

One by one the accusers depart, leaving the woman alone with Jesus, who despite being the only one without sin, chooses to forgive her.

This story, serves as a profound reminder of our shared need for forgiveness. God's forgiveness releases the woman from the punishment that was required of her, so that she can walk into the light of new beginnings.

Whilst the Pharisees strive to create division, Jesus used the opportunity to demonstrate humanity's common need for a Saviour. Out of the perfect grace that God shows us, we are invited to extend forgiveness also - to those who have wronged us, affected us or even misled us.

It's a tough one isn't it?

The reality is, we have all been wounded by people in our lives, and we can either replay those wounds over and over and let bitterness take root and grow in our hearts, or we can choose to forgive.

It is a choice. An active intentional choice.

Breaking down that brick wall of bitterness and grudge holding in our hearts is not easy. And following God's example of forgiveness through Jesus is impossible on our own. But God promises to help us reflect His forgiving nature through His Holy Spirit and His Word.

Let's look to Jesus as he hung on the cross, suffering excruciating pain and see a remarkable display of forgiveness in Luke 23:34:

"Father, forgive them for they know not what they do."

Jesus In His infinite grace, offered forgiveness, even to those who crucified Him. Such is the depth of love and mercy we are called to emulate.

The recent images we are seeing of our world has been of bitterness, anger and a desire for revenge. We are called, as believers, to show the love of Jesus by extending forgiveness to others. When we do, we can become instruments of reconciliation, and bring healing to broken people.

May we live out the great mercy we have received, fostering peace and reconciliation in our daily interactions with one another.

https://youtu.be/h1Lu5udXEZI?si=IHCgvrcjEyTUwAxI

I hope you enjoy this song!

God bless