Friday, January 19, 2007

Forgiveness, Amen?


The most important "work" for a Christian. The most essential characteristics for those who call themselves the followers of Christ.
How are we doing on this? Can we call ourselves the people who execute it? Every day, to everybody? No matter what? Or, rather, we look for excuses in order not to show it, in order not to do it?

'The other cheek' - rule looks fine on paper; we adore it when we read about it. But do we do it? What do I do when it is time to turn my other cheek, after the first one had been hit? What do you do?
It is so convenient to forget the rule... It is so 'uplifting' to pay back... Makes one feel good, right? We do not like to lose our battles, and we do not like to be used. The human carnal nature wants revenge and retaliation. How much of this carnal nature is still in me? In you?

I am not talking about being beaten up - if somebody might get that notion...

I am talking about ordinary trials of life, back mouthing, scorning, expecting justice and fair treatment, having others live up to your expectations... Having children do as they are told, or else... Dealing with students who disrespect you, having other drivers on the road making gestures towards you because you drive too slowly, that kind of stuff.

In a way - we shouldn't be even contemplating on such trivialities, because when we look at what is going on in China, Africa or other countries where Christians are persecuted daily, we should humbly bow our heads and weep...

But - the personal perspective and horizon determines our vision, so we do hurt, even if our hurt is nothing compared to the hurt of a Christian in North Korea... Sufferings and injustice are the essential part of a Christian life; in fact, they are precisely what Jesus promised. However hard to take, we need to humble ourselves and receive them as this seasoning and crown of thorns that Grace is accompanied with. Amen?
Mat 18:35 So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

Luk 11:4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.

2Cr 2:7 So that contrariwise ye [ought] rather to forgive [him], and comfort [him], lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.

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