Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34
Last time (Can’t Forgive) I offered two stories about forgiving. Here are a few of the things I’ve tried to learn from those stories.
Forgiving only happens when I somehow reach the difficult understanding that life isn’t about me.
Forgiving doesn’t happen in my head. Forgiving is a heart thing.
Forgiving isn’t an event. Forgiving is a process that often has to occur over and over again.
“Forgiving” and “forgetting” have nothing to do with each other.
Forgiving is a decision, not a feeling. And it’s a very difficult decision.
Forgiving can’t happen from a distance. Forgiving means getting up-close-and-personal with people and situations I’d rather avoid.
Forgiving happens in a relationship. It means making a commitment to, and caring about, someone I’d rather dismiss.
Forgiving may, or may not, help the other person.
Forgiving frees the forgiver.
Forgiving is about following. Jesus said, “Come. Follow me.” Then He forgave those who tortured and murdered Him.
There was a time when I’d have said “You have to forgive” or at least “You should forgive.” I hope I’d never say that again. To anyone. Ever. Especially myself.
Tomorrow: Why Forgive?
Please leave a comment.
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