Forgiveness

Yesterday's sermon at Good Shepherd on "taking down walls and building bridges", reminded me again that the foundation of our walk with the Lord is "forgiveness" – His forgiveness of us and the forgiveness we offer and receive from others.  (Matthew 6:14-15)   The two main themes of Jesus ministry are love and forgiveness.  I have learned some things along the way that have helped me live a more forgiving life:

• Accept God’s forgiveness, it is His gift to you
• Acknowledge the anger and hurt cause by the offense of another
• ‘Decide’ to forgive – “let go” by the power of the Spirit
• Pray everyday for at least 30 days for the person who hurt you
• Rule out revenge – always “take the high road” 
• Walk in the offender’s shoes – “If I were in their place, I would feel…”
• Extend good will to the offender – acts and words of kindness
• Give yourself time to heal and take care of yourself

Jesus modeled forgiveness and the Holy Spirit empowers us to live it.  The greatest witness we can give to the transforming power of Jesus in our lives is to live a life of love and forgiveness.