Forgiveness is The Christian Way by Rev. Dr. James H. Hudson

Originally published by the Erie Times-News on September 2019

"Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God, for Christ's sake, hath forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32

In today's frenetic society, we often forget that we, as Christians, have the obligation to forgive one another.

With so much malice and malcontent being seen and heard in this seemingly dog-eat-dog atmosphere, we should be a kinder and more forgiving example of Christ's love.

A valid definition for forgiveness, according to Wikipedia, is the intentional and voluntary process by which a victim undergoes a change in feelings and attitude regarding an offense, lets go of negative emotions such as vengefulness, forswears recompense from or punishment of the offender, however legally or morally justified it might be, and with an increased ability to wish the offender well.

The Holy Bible states in Deuteronomy 32:35, "Vengeance is mine." If we hold a grudge or umbrage against another person, we should let God intervene. Our duty is to forgive.

According to Matthew 18:22, Jesus stated that we should strive to be complete in our forgiving one another. He did that by stating that we forgive a person 70 times seven when he is asked about forgiveness. He uses this imagery to show that there is no limit to our forgiving. Most people have a very limited amount of forgiveness in their personal reservoir of mercy. Folks, forgiveness is a standard of the Christian faith. If we are to truly represent our Christian belief, we must learn to fully forgive.

Having a spirit of forgiveness can help heal a broken heart, lift a wounded soul and rejoice in triumph in a time of crisis or despair. It grants us the ability to become victors instead of victims. We can grow spiritually and improve our health overall by having a forgiving spirit. The Holy Bible tells us to bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you (Colossians 3:13). Many times, we can become reluctant to forgive an insult or perceived slight but taking the high road is truly the Christian way. It is, in fact, the road less traveled. Become more forgiving and begin to change your life.