Tuesday; December 28

When we think of the word “forgiveness”, what comes to mind? Often, when I try to come to grips with the idea I think about a kind gesture that I give to someone because of who I am. It’s almost like I am some kind of benevolent benefactor that is willing to share something uncommon with someone who doesn’t really deserve it. When perceived in this way, it is some gracious gift that is bestowed on someone who really is unworthy of it. While this sounds kind of cool – and really gracious on my part – I am not sure that it accurately describes Christian forgiveness. You see, forgiveness is not an option for believers, much less a grand gesture. It is as much a requirement for basic Christianity as doing the right thing and having a relationship with God. It is not something we give because we are spiritually adept, it is something we owe because we are saved! While Jesus made no bones about the need to forgive others, it was the Apostle Paul who wrote, “Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ has forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32). The ability to forgive someone isn’t because we are special, it is because we need it for our own forgiveness.
How would the idea of forgiveness change if we realized that is not some grand option, rather it is a basic tenant of Christianity? Would we be more dedicated to forgiving others? Would we be so dedicated to it that we wouldn’t give it a second thought?
Is there someone we need to forgive? Let’s keep in mind that it isn’t an option for us – it is necessary for our own spiritual well-being.

Think About It!

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