It struck me...that we forgive those that are indebted to us,...not just those who say "sorry" or who have already made restitution. Wow. I wasn't sure if I was up to it, but, two days ago, when I felt the frustration boil after speaking with someone who was rude to me, I tried it.
"Fine," I told myself, "I forgive them. No strings attached. I am done and moving on, and I love them." The feeling of freedom was incredible. I usually hold the offense close to my heart, but this time, I just let it go.
This morning for devotional, we watched the following, and I was reminded of my experience. This man is truly inspiring and the video beautiful...enjoy!
We spoke in our devotional about how when we are forgiving of others, letting go of the grievance instead of holding onto it, we allow the same to happen with our sins. We see our sins and our Father in Heaven in a different light...we feel the freedom and joy that comes with asking forgiveness without worrying if the price we need to pay is enough, if that makes sense. I believe that the degree of forgiveness we extend to others can either soften or harden our hearts as we look at our own sins and consider whether they are forgiveable.
Avot make a beautiful comparison with this concept and Jean Valjean and Javier. Jean Valjean received forgiveness and freely gave it to others. Javier withheld his forgiveness and mercy and could not receive it for himself when Jean Valjean extended it to him. He destroyed himself instead.
Let us let the joy of forgiveness into our lives!
Thank you. It is good to see the power of forgiveness. It is something we all need to learn over and over again.
ReplyDeleteReminds me of two things I've been thinking about. One, that we give forgiveness so freely to little ones. If the baby keeps us up at night, or if the three year old has a grumpy day, we don't hold a grudge. We just focus on caring for them through it. I'm trying to translate that to olders (not easy for me!).
ReplyDeleteThe other is that if someone offends me it's easy to forgive, but if someone is messing with my family, a lot harder. Especially if it's something harder for me to heal, like a mental or spiritual wound that in turn effects more of us. I've realized I mentally throw that person in the useless category. Trying to work on forgiveness, while watching for future issues.
You are both so wonderful! Thanks for your comments :)...I agree it is so hard and yet so wonderful to see the power of it :)!
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