Forgiveness is a very interesting subject. So often our focus in life is on:
- Justice: right and wrong, which leads to seeking revenge, seeing someone suffer for the times they do something wrong, especially when their sin is against us or someone close to us.
- Accumulating assets: like money, stocks, homes, autos, and many other tangible and intangible items.
- Power, prestige, authority: to be in control and influence outcomes.
- Pleasure: doing things we enjoy.
More nobly we are desirous of joy, peace, and satisfaction in a life well lived.
Why is forgiveness such an ignored topic?
Does forgiveness play a critical role to achieve other noble goals we seek?
It certainly is important to know what is right and what is wrong as defined by God. It is critical for justice to be enforced to deter sinful behavior.
Yet, there are times we want to be the primary decision maker for what is right and wrong. We long to determine how wrong should be addressed to correct the negative impact when others wrong us.
Pausing to understand how God would have us react when someone sins (especially against us), is critical for us to have the proper response in these situations.
I frequently reflect on Christ’s words on the cross: “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”
I am challenged by these words, to do my best to love others, especially when they are making my life difficult by their sinful behavior. These words help me recognize there are a lot of people doing bad things out of ignorance.
I am encouraged by these words to remember Christ stands ready to forgive me when I unintentionally do things which are even grossly wrong.
How do these words of Christ impact you?
Scripture instructs me (perhaps you too) in Romans 12:19 to leave vengeance to God, “’Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord” (emphasis mine). This is freeing to me because it releases me from the responsibility to make wrongs right.
I suspect no one can ever make a wrong right. The damage done by sinful actions goes deep. It is like shattering a glass plate. No amount of effort will restore the plate to its original form and use.
There is a need to address sinful behavior. In Matthew 18:15-20, we are given very clear instructions on how to confront others when they sin against us. Thus, sin needs to be recognized and dealt with. The key is to address sin and press into potential conflict with a heart full of love and compassion, especially to those who have sinned against us.
Forgiveness lays the foundation to minimize distractions from serving God and others, helps maintain physical and emotional health, and restores relationship.
Each of us is part of this world full of sinners.
We live with much more freedom when we leave the execution of justice to God, as we accept God’s grace for our sins, and live in the present, committed to live holy and spotless lives in obedience to God’s perfect standard the best we can.
