| The Lord's Prayer, Part 10: The Fifth Petition, "... as we forgive our debtors" |
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| Written by David Lawrence |
| Monday, September 19 2011 00:00 |
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Forgiveness is a difficult command. I marvel at how Jesus states it, as though it is a given that His disciples will naturally forgive those who sin against them. I read of instances where Christians will go to incredible lengths to show forgiveness, such as adopting into their family a young person who has murdered one of their children, or a person wronged at work and perhaps losing his/her job then sending roses to that person responsible. Forgiveness is sweet. In my own past, I look back on a history of grievances I have had with people and can identify that I was usually at least a part of not the whole cause of that rift. But I can think of how good it felt when, regardless of who was responsible, the rift was healed. Yet I must admit that sometimes sin can be so egregious, affecting not only me but people whom I love, that I struggle with forgiveness. I am always encouraged when I remember that the Savior prayed at the cross for the forgiveness of those who were executing him so cruelly. Jesus is our example, but my own weakness of the flesh, the power and influence of the world upon me, and the work of the devil in my life often interfere with my ability or willingness to forgive those who trespass against me. But then, Jesus expects it of me. Once again, our Savior has raised the bar so high that I have the greatest difficulty mounting it. I must appeal to His grace, and I must trust that His Holy Spirit is working His sovereign transformation in my life so that I shall more closely resemble the savior every day and thus be more willing and able to forgive those who sin against me and mine. You and I must also remember that, although we cannot sometimes understand how, all things are working together under the sovereign purpose of God and working for our good and for His eternal glory! Let us then forgive and move on with our lives. |
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