Forgiveness -the Basis for Sustaining Relationships

Forgiveness –the Basis for Sustaining Relationships
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

Luke 23 v 34

Jesus being the only begotten Son of God always addressed Him as “Father.” He asked the Father to forgive the sins of His tormenters, those who had beaten Him, nailed and crucified Him. He could have asked for justice or cursed the ones who crucified Him. This was the greatest instance of love in the world when despite His great suffering, He sought forgiveness for His accusers and persecutors who had so unjustly condemned Him to death. Jesus taught mankind the forgiveness ethic like no one else did. He practised it even on the cross. Today, without forgiveness no family can sustain itself, no relationship can continue. Even in the workplace, forgiveness is so necessary to avoid grudges and resentment.

Jesus pleaded for mercy for His foes and aggressors on the plea of their ignorance. He forgave the woman who had committed adultery even though He was the only One who could condemn her. He forgave the thief on the cross who repented of his sin and wanted Jesus to remember him when He came into His kingdom. Since we have been freely forgiven we too need to forgive those who have hurt us or opposed us or attacked us. It is not a sign of weakness as the world might think but the only way to maintain relationships.

The discipline of law and justice goes hand in hand with the dispensation of grace and mercy. Jesus forgave one thief who was crucified beside Him. The other one instead of asking for forgiveness was mocking Him. He did not seek forgiveness. Hence, repentance is necessary in order that God forgives us. David repented of adultery and murder and was forgiven by God. Joseph forgave the brothers who had conspired against him and sold him into slavery. When we judge others and take revenge, we are taking over the prerogative reserved for God who is the only righteous judge. The Israelites who repented for having condemned the sinless Jesus were forgiven. The Roman soldiers who recognized that Jesus was indeed the Son of God repented and were blessed. But those who were so hardened in their attitudes as to cast lots for His robe excluded themselves from receiving the grace and mercy of God. Forgiveness brings healing in relationships just as medicine heals diseases. Forgiveness precedes wholeness and blessedness. In contrast, when people are embittered and hold resentment against others, it affects their health. Receiving the forgiveness of God has many blessings accompanying it. As it is written in Isaiah 53 by His chastisement, our peace is purchased. Peace with God and man. Peace with self and others. Peace that is holistic. It includes spiritual peace, peace of mind, physical blessings, material or monetary prosperity, success, wholesomeness and well being.

Prateep V Philip