Forgiveness

     Forgiveness is one of those things that we all know in our mind we are supposed to do, but deep down inside it is one of the most difficult things possible.  One of the last words spoken by Jesus were "Father forgive them."  God wanted us to know that Jesus had no feelings of bitterness for what happened to him.  It was a pure act of love when Jesus gave himself up.  It is that same model of love that we, as Christians, are to follow.

     According to the Mayo Clinic, unforgiveness contributes to things like:  alcohol and drug abuse, mental depression, chronic pain, High Blood pressure, and poor overall quality of life.  People who practice forgiveness are happier, healthier, feel better and generally enjoy life to a greater degree than those who hold on to feelings of being hurt and bitterness toward others.  I think God knew what he was doing when he commanded us to forgive one another!

Forgiveness is not excusing the action.  The same Mayo study continues: “Forgiveness doesn't mean that you deny the other person's responsibility for hurting you, and it doesn't minimize or justify the wrong. You can forgive the person without excusing the act. Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps you go on with life.”  And that is really what we are talking about.  Being able to go on with life. 

Once we forgive someone, those actions no longer hold us hostage to the past.  That painful event doesn’t define us.  Who is it that you need to forgive?  What event from your past is keeping you from experiencing the fullness of life Christ would have for each one of us?  Take some time over the next month and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal people that you need to forgive.  It is a very freeing feeling to get rid of the bitterness that too many of us needlessly carry around!