Forgiveness. Ridding oneself of resentments. It’s uncanny how what one needs to learn is placed right in front of her, if only she has the eyes to see. That one is me. I’m working on both. I’m grateful.
It seemed like every book, e-book or emailed devotional I opened this morning addressed one or the other in explicit detail. Precise wording was even suggested (praying for the offender’s health, safety, prosperity and happiness.) There was no skirting around the issue; in order to be rid of this resentment, forgiveness needs to happen first.
Correction. The willingness to forgive has to happen before anything else. I’m grateful I’m to this point, although it’s taken more than six years. It feels as though my heart and my mind are finally aligned, and I’m able now to do the actual work. Better late than never.
Besides suggesting what to pray for, of my readings even explained how to forgive: the way Jesus forgave. Unconditionally. Willingly. Generously. Permanently. Graciously. Completely. I can’t do all that at once, at least today. At this point, I’m only willing to forgive. That alone is huge.
For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, the servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. ~John 13:15-17
