03-15-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
​March 15, 2023
What would it mean for the universe, including your own little universe, if you were to find the capacity to forgive more often? Of course, when I speak of forgiveness, I am not suggesting we excuse unhealthy or damaging behavior; I’m not encouraging someone to stay in an abusive relationship; I’m not pretending forgiveness is easy. What I am proposing is a greater belief in the power of forgiveness, even if it is nothing more than setting a healthy boundary and choosing to forgive oneself for not doing so earlier. We give forgiveness a lot of lip service, but practicing it is something we avoid because it is hard and requires a lot of intentional and messy work. What would it mean for the universe, including your own little universe, if you were to find the capacity to forgive a bit more often? It might not dramatically shift the trajectory of the universe, but because it could shift your own trajectory, it will impact the universe for the better. As Paul writes in Ephesians 4, "…forgive each other, as God in Christ has forgiven you." And though I can’t speak for Paul, I sort of believe it included the capacity to forgive ourselves.

O God, continue to provide for me models and mentors in this challenging work of forgiveness. Even if it is nothing more than making the decision to no longer allow the pain of the past to define the present, I believe such a decision can and will make for a healthier me and a healthier world. Lead me, O Gracious One. Amen.