Free to live: choosing forgiveness

Today's topic resonates deeply with our spiritual and emotional lives: forgiveness. This isn’t just a lofty religious concept; it’s a practical tool for healing and growth. Let's explore how forgiveness can truly set us free.

What forgiveness is... and isn't.
First, it’s vital to understand what forgiveness really means. It’s not about excusing the excusable, forgetting the pain, or even getting to the point of reconciliation. Forgiveness is about releasing the wrongdoer to God’s justice and choosing not to let bitterness control us. It’s a decision to rise above our circumstances and not be dictated by the sins of others.

So what is forgiveness?

Here are some practical steps to forgiveness:

1. Acknowledge the Wrong: Recognize the harm that has been done. It's important to face the reality of the situation honestly.
2. Remember Christ’s Sacrifice: Reflect on what Jesus endured for our forgiveness. This empowers us to extend forgiveness to others.
3. Grieve the Loss: Whether it's a relational, financial, or emotional loss, allow yourself to grieve. This is crucial for healing.
4. Release Justice to God: Choose to let go of personal retribution. Trust that God will handle the situation in His perfect justice.
5. Commit to the Process: Forgiveness is often a journey, not a one-time event. Be prepared to forgive repeatedly, especially when old feelings resurface.
6. Seek to Bless the Offender: This might be challenging, but striving to wish well for the person who hurt you is a powerful act of forgiveness.
7. Share Your Story: Once healed, your testimony of forgiveness can inspire and encourage others.

Why forgive?
Forgiveness is not just beneficial for those we forgive; it’s crucial for our own well-being. Unforgiveness is like a chain that binds us to the past, preventing us from fully embracing the present and future. It can even affect our health, leading to issues like stress, anxiety, and depression.

But when we forgive, we open ourselves to a life of freedom and peace. We break free from the cage of bitterness and step into a new realm of emotional and spiritual health.

The power of forgiveness.
Forgiveness is a gateway to new life. It’s not natural to our fallen human nature, but through the Gospel, we receive the strength to forgive. Just as the death and resurrection of Jesus are a celebration of all He did for us, our forgiveness of others is a testament to His work in our lives.

In conclusion.
Forgiveness is a journey, often a challenging one, but it’s a path worth walking. It’s not about ignoring the wrongs done to us but about choosing a life unburdened by resentment and pain. As we learn to forgive, we truly begin to experience the freedom and joy that Christ offers.

May this exploration of forgiveness encourage you to embrace this liberating journey. Remember, you are free to live when you are faithful to forgive.

- Adapted from the sermon preached at WLCC on 12/3/23.