Forgiveness

“Create in me a clean heart Oh God, and renew a right spirit within me.” --Psalm 51

“Father, forgive them they know not what they do.” --Luke 23

I believe that forgiveness is the key to unlock in the most powerful way the other aspects of The Peace. (Compassion, Mercy, Justice, Forgiveness, and Grace.)

It may be the most difficult to achieve. Remember in Matthew 18 when Peter asked Jesus. “How often must I forgive? Up to 7 times?”  Jesus responded “No, 70 times 7 times.”

Holding on to any form of grudge forms a shadow over the light that can shine through each of us. Of course we must process hurt and disappointment, but at some point, we must let go of it and forgive. Of course, this is a choice but it is a stepping stone to greater spiritual growth.

This is not easy.  There are two people that have been on and off, of my “lemon list” over the past 5 years. I cannot seem to shake it. When they are present in my consciousness, I do feel a bit of darkness and must at the very least sweep the thought away. But that is not enough.

And so, I keep forgiving because if I did not it would overcome my sense of peace.  But why, oh why, is this so difficult? I believe the addict in me is part of the answer. You see, “the stress produced by anger releases adrenaline that can give one a temporary high.” (AI)  

I need to get out of the way on this and let God take over. The good feeling really is not that good; it is, at best, meaningless. So. “What is a poor boy to do?” (Henry Lee Summer) In short keep fighting the good fight. 70 times 7 or more.

Peace,

Pastor Mark