If we follow the teachings of Jesus and earnestly try to apply them to our own lives, we know that forgiveness is not an option, but a requirement for Christians. Yet, in few other circumstances is the reality of our imperfect humanity so apparent or challenging as when we are in need of forgiving.
This week we examine God's desire for us to move beyond anger, hurt and bitterness when we've been wronged in order to live more fully in the state of grace that comes when we forgive.
We offer these reflections with prayers for you to abide in God's peace~
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When I forgive in the name of Christ, I am making a concrete act of faith that what he told us was true, and that even though I may not ever know the results of my loving act, by forgiving my enemies I am participating in God's mysterious, magnificent plan for the world.
I am on his side, and not on the side of the doubters and scoffers and cynics who snicker at the notion of goodness and love. That is hope.
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The Way of Forgiveness
Memories are like cracked fissures in hot, dry earth. They run deep and are unpredictable, even untidy. They emerge at odd times, often when we least expect them. Phrases, looks, feelings, can skirt across our consciousness when we are completely unprepared.
Yes, it's a challenge to love those who have hurt us. But love is like a balm that brings peace to our soul. When the memories flit across the stage of our life and we find ourselves entangled in the feelings that follow, we might simply try to allow God's love to waft over us and over the one who has been the cause of our pain. In the heat of that divine love, we just may find our soul becoming still.
A Prayer for Forgiving Oneself
Gracious God,
When I try to forgive myself, it seems I only remember and re-play my failures in my mind, and a sense of hopelessness floods over me. Help me to know that my past actions are a part of my growing humanity and that even when I fail to live up to what is your will for me, every single moment can be lived anew.
explorefaith invites you to pray with us for the people of Haiti whose lives have been forever changed by last week's devastating earthquakes.
A Prayer for Victims Everywhere
O God of grace, we come before you with hurting hearts to plead for those who are the victims of injury, displacement and destruction.
As we watch from afar, good God, and feel the burning question "Why?" scream through our souls, descend with your loving presence and unfaltering assurance that even in life's darkest moments you are always there. Even pain and questioning are held in the eternity of your embrace. In the time of fear remind us that, in You, nothing is ever lost.
A Prayer for Those Suffering in Haiti
O God, we remember when the disciples of Jesus were terrified after a long night on a turbulent sea. When they cried to you for help, you stilled the sea and brought them to safety. We ask now that you comfort and still the hearts of those who are suffering in Haiti.
