Forgiveness Myth

Read

Matthew 18:21-22 “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.’”

Think

During the era when Mongolia was under Soviet Union control, the Chinese cleverly employed a different railroad track size, rendering invasion an exceptionally formidable task. This unique historical context is still evident today when one embarks on a train journey from China to Mongolia. In this modern age, the process involves physically lifting the train and replacing its wheels to accommodate the 3-inch-different tracks—a poignant metaphor for what transpires when we become ensnared by unforgiveness.

Much like that halted train on the border, unforgiveness paralyzes us. It becomes an insurmountable obstacle, dictating our actions and controlling our emotions. However, the transformative power of forgiveness lies in our ability to release these emotional burdens, enabling us to resume our journey and move forward. But we must make that decision to forgive, to change.

Christianity, at its core, is founded on the act of forgiveness exemplified by Jesus. It was not a simple undertaking; in the face of immense suffering, Jesus yielded to God's will, as evidenced by his words on the cross, "not my will, but yours be done" (Luke 22:42). His willingness to tread the path of forgiveness was a testament to its significance in God's plan for us. Through his actions, Jesus gave us the capacity to forgive.

Apply

Do you need to release someone today? To change tracks, so to speak? Make that conscious decision and release that person.

Pray

Jesus, I give my hurt to you. You alone can heal all the wounds inside of me. Give me strength to forgive and grow. In Jesus' name. Amen.