Forgiveness

“When the soldiers came to the place called “The Skull,” they nailed Jesus to a cross. They also nailed the two criminals to crosses, one on each side of Jesus.

Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive these people! They don’t know what they’re doing.’

While the crowd stood there watching Jesus, the soldiers gambled for his clothes. The leaders insulted him by saying, ‘He saved others. Now he should save himself if he really is God’s chosen Messiah!’” Luke 23: 33-35 Contemporary English Version (CEV)

Forgiveness. A small but powerful word. Also, a command from our Lord Jesus who asked His Father in Heaven to forgive those who were torturing and crucifying Him. As disciples of Jesus we are instructed to forgive others.

Those who cut us off in traffic and nearly caused an accident. “Father, forgive them.”

Those who are abused sexually, physically, or emotionally. “Father, forgive them.”

Those who steal from us in phone or online scams. “Father, forgive them.”

Those who take advantage of us; those who talk about us behind our backs. Those who scream and curse us for no reason at all. “Father, forgive them.”

We need to be obedient and forgive others.

“Then came Peter to him, and said, ‘Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?’

 Jesus saith unto him, ‘I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.’” Matthew 18: 21-22 (KJV)

Jesus wasn’t telling Peter to just forgive 490 times, He was making a point. We should give unending forgiveness to everyone; whether they ask for it or not. It is extremely beneficial to our mental health and more importantly, our spiritual health if we make this a daily practice.

Is this too difficult? Is this something you don’t want to do? Would you rather hold on to your anger, resentment, bitterness, and wanting revenge? Remember, God says, “If it is possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” Romans 12:18-19 (KJV).

I hope we all will make forgiveness a daily part of our lives. We can always pray and ask God to help us forgive. Remember the alternative that Jesus told us, “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”