As we spend our Lenten season reflecting on our lives, trying to change our thoughts and re-direct our steps back to the path God has planned for us, we should attempt to work on forgiving those who have wronged us and asking forgiveness of those we have wronged.
If we take this season of penitent self-study to consciously make this effort, then perhaps it will not be such a hard thing to do during the rest of the year.
Forgiveness is often called a gift you give yourself. By forgiving someone who has hurt you, you let go of the anger, hurt, and resentment that is so damaging to your mind, body and spirit.
By asking forgiveness, you present a heart, mind, and soul committed to change to the person you have wronged, hopefully healing a rift between the two of you. If he should choose not to forgive you, you should reflect upon whether you have made a just act of reparation to heal the grief you have caused….sometimes it’s as simple as an apology, other times specific actions are needed to restore the relationship. However, if you have done all that is reasonable to right the wrong, you also need to let go of the hurt, guilt and self-recrimination until that person is willing to consider an option of forgiveness.
When Peter asks Jesus how often we should forgive our brother, Jesus tells us this: “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” Matthew 18:22
Recently I have heard a song on contemporary Christian radio that speaks to this concept. It has been stuck in my head today. 7 Times 70 Times by Chris August speaks to the power of forgiveness and how even though that can seem oh-so-hard, that's where the healing begins.
Check it out for yourself. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5-Q1zAhqpA
It’s a great song to think about during Lent, and everyday.
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