Near the close of worship today the pastor reminded us that with terrible recent events - and he listed a few - it was important that the Church be the Church and that we not give up hope. He reminded us that we need to forgive our brothers and sisters. As I had been strongly resenting my literal brother for things he posted this week, it hit home hard. The events of this world go away, but we remain. What we accomplish matters much less than how we accomplish it.
That's what I've been telling everyone else for years anyway. It seems I don't quite believe it for myself.
3 comments:
We are commanded to forgive when the offending brother is contrite. Otherwise it's optional.
I have heard that, but I don't think it is true. We cannot reconcile unless there is mutual effort, but forgiveness is a gift. Forgiveness does not mean overlooking or excusing. Nor does it mean we are not allowed to respond to being sinned against. We can say "I will not hold this against you. I drop the penalty. But you will have to earn back my trust." Sometimes we forgive in order to be free ourselves, carrying no further burden. We have done what we could.
The 12-Step people take a very practical approach to this in Steps 4-9. Many of them have long experience with family or friends who have hurt them badly and unfairly. They have a series of tasks that puts this to bed.
1 John 1:19 says: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." Notice the opening clause: If we confess our sins... If God requires it of us, can/should we require it of our brother? For that matter, is it even good for our brother to forgive him, if he is not willing to face his sins? Don't know the answer for sure, but I am leaning one way.
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