Wednesday, February 16, 2011

When is forgiveness complete?

For us mortals, forgiveness by God was complete once-and-for-all when we accepted Jesus' gift of forgiveness of our sins, which he paid for with His life.

But what about forgiving one another? When is my forgiveness of one who's wronged me complete?

Well, I was speaking with a wise woman today concerning this topic. My end of the conversation went something like, "I don't wish (them) ill will -- I've let them off my hook..."

My friend said delicately, but directly, "Ann, if 'they' are still taking up space in your brain over what's transpired -- or might happen in the future, you haven't fully forgiven them and you are, in fact, judging them."

Ouch! The truth hurts -- but it's sooooo good.

God, free my mind from thought of those who have wronged me and open my heart to true forgiveness that depends not at all on their behavior (past or future) -- but on Your grace.

Amen!

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