Can We Forgive Others?

Can we forgive others?

Forgiveness is a word we hear a lot these days, but the practice of it often puts us off.

Forgiveness is a word we hear a lot these days, but the practice of it often puts us off.  Maybe because it makes us feel uneasy, threatened, or vulnerable.  After all, if we’re talking about forgiveness, then it’s likely that another person has hurt us.  And who wants to admit to that kind of power by someone?  That we’re actually permeable to others?  Even if it’s true, who wants to acknowledge it out loud, knowingly exposing ourselves?  Isn’t it just easier to gloss over our hurts with a polished, successful exterior and press on with school, work, or the next best thing?

“ Forgive others, and you will be forgiven” (Luke 6:37).

What do you think Jesus is getting at in this statement?  In other words, why is it so important to Him that we forgive one another? 

Here, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is outlining a completely different way of living together in relationship. This verse helps us to think honestly about how our words, thoughts, and beliefs can polarize us from each other.  It also points to the way Jesus lives His life and models to us the power forgiveness will have in bringing healing and freedom for our relationships with others and ourselves. 

Sit with it for a while.  Maybe a day.  A week.  Or a month. While you do, ask God why forgiveness is so important for the way we relate to one another.  Ask Him to personalize the experience of it in your life.