This year learn more about how to forgive others, and how to forgive yourself. First, know that forgiveness is not a commodity that is bought or sold on the market; nor, is it a free gift of inheritance. It necessitates a lot of pride-swallowing, soul-searching, heart-conditioning and a lot of real hard work – often with bitter tears. Now, perhaps you may think I should seek your forgiveness for making the process sound so complex and difficult, but this is the way it works.
Our message from Jesus is: “When you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father who is in heaven will also forgive your transgressions” (Mk. 11:25). So, we must have done our own homework, before we can expect grace from above to cleanse us.
Forgiving others who trespass against us is one of our toughest assignments, because we are still to love them, hold them as if no offense has occurred, and wish them well. Forgiveness is forgiveness, without degrees, without reservations, without retaliation; in both Divine and human relations.
Without doubt, it is easier to forgive a friend who has betrayed you, than an enemy who is attempting to destroy you. Jesus must have struggled with this reality when He prayed from the cross: “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing” (Lk.23:34); but, He showed us how it is done!
Scripture exhorts each of us: “Be kind to one another, tender- hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you” (Eph. 4:32). This means that we must hold ourselves in a forgiving spirit; remembering that God forgives us our deepest sins, freely and completely, when we turn to Him.
Remember also; Joseph forgave his wicked brothers and did them good in return. David forgave Saul who tried to murder him. Stephen forgave his murderers as they were executing him. Our Lord and Master forgave His bitterest enemies. And we must show mercy and forgiveness to everyone; not because they are Christians, but because we are.
In His preaching ministry our Lord said: “But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Lk. 6:27,28). This is your sermon for today, and every day. Also remember His supporting words: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Mt. 11:30).
Now, you take it from there!
