Forgiveness is mentioned dozens of times in the Bible . In Genesis 33 , esau forgives his brother treachery in stealing his birthright . And the most famous example is the forgiveness Jesus chooses on the cross as his accusers and executioners mock him . Think about how hard that was . It gives some perspective on our own situations in life when you think about it .
The entire theme of the Bible , from Genesis to Revelation , is one of forgiveness . Man chose to bring sin into the world and defy God's perfect plan . Yet God didn't leave us in that state . He made a way for our sins to be put away forever . Jesus Christ became the vessel through which forgiveness could be extended on an epic scale .
One of the most difficult passages in all the bible is found in the new testament . Matthew 5 , 43 through 45 , says you have heard the law that says love your neighbor and you hate your enemy . But I say love your enemies , pray for those who persecute you . In that way you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven .
Now , in the here and now . Is there anything more difficult than forgiving a mocking enemy ? There are people in the world who delight in making others miserable their whole lives , but Jesus is telling us that is possible . The key is when we take the long view . But Jesus is telling us that is possible . The key is when we take the long view .
We must mentally and emotionally take ourselves out of the pain we are experiencing right now . Think of the future . Begin imagining the most wonderful healing that can take place between enemies . That's what God did for us . The Bible tells us he is holy and cannot look on sin . Yet in Genesis , chapter 3 , god began the process of grace .
In the Gospels and in Paul's letters we see him continuing to be patient with us . And then in Revelation , the long view . God takes our acts of forgiveness and makes a powerful , redemptive new world , and we can look forward to that . Let's pray , father . Thank you for having mercy on us in every way .
Sometimes we need to forgive someone and sometimes the shoe's on the other foot . Help us to read your word and act on your commands to forgive , especially when it hurts . In Jesus' name , amen .