Forgiveness

Did you see the news story about the young man who hugged the killer of his brother? Forgiveness is a powerful thing. That's because it really sets two people free, not just one.

We live in a divided country. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could all just get along?

Take a look at this picture and the video at the end of this story. Wow. The lady in the picture had just been convicted of murdering the young man's brother. Yet, the young man asked the judge if he could give the former police officer a hug. Why? Why would he do that?

He also told the woman that he loved her and wanted the best for her, hoping she would give her life to Christ. The judge also gave the convicted killer a hug . . . and a Bible. Her own personal Bible. God was clearly at work in that courtroom.

Yet, there were people outside the courthouse protesting because they felt she should have gotten a longer sentence. The judge is in trouble for "bringing religion into the courtroom." Still, this young man said he wished she didn't have to go to jail at all. The judge showed compassion. Why? Why would he say that when the law clearly states that she must go to prison for such a crime?

The reason is . . . the young man and the judge are both Christians. This is what Paul the Apostle was talking about when he said . . .

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." - Ephesians 4:32

Or when Jesus answered Peter's question about how many times to forgive someone.

"21Then 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?”

22Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times." - Matthew 18:21-22

Forgiveness is NOT an option or a choice, it is a command from God. The only reason this is a news story at all is because forgiveness is so incredibly rare these days. Yet forgiveness DOES happen.

If you are a Christian, God forgave you. He commands us to do the same for others. How are we doing with that? Here's another promise from God that's worth remembering.

"But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." - Matthew 6:15

Are you harboring any ill will towards someone? Are you holding a grudge? Get over it! Your lack of forgiveness is sentencing YOU to life in prison. YOU are the prisoner! Repent. Seek forgiveness from God. He will give it. Then offer forgiveness to others. It will truly set you free.

Botham Jean's Brother Hugs Ex-Officer - The Guardian
Forgiveness - Matthew West