On Forgiveness

Dan and Holly gave us a wonderful audio book entitled “The Peacegiver” by  James L. Ferrell.  We wholeheartedly recommend it, especially to people who feel lingering pain caused by the actions of others.

It contains several very inspiring messages. One of them addressed the issue of forgiveness, something we all must deal with from time to time.  One particularly inspiring aspect of the book is the call for Christians to seriously consider what the atonement means. The relationship to forgiveness described in the book is that since Christ has already paid the price for the sins and misdeeds of everyone, what right does anyone have to be bitter or hold grudges against someone who has offended us, whether intentionally or unintentionally?  That is a powerful question and coupled with the hurt that often follows we need to give careful consideration to willingly forgiving others.  The book gives a powerful and in-depth analysis of the story of David and Abigail in the Old Testament; we plan to use it when we reach that segment in our Institute classes.

The atonement would have already paid for that offense provided that the offender had adequately repented.  But the later is only between Christ and the offender.  The Savior has put Himself between the offender and ourselves.  Our focus should be on our relationship with the Savior.  Christ has commanded us to forgive everyone who may offend us.  

It seems clear that more forgiveness would make the world a far better place. 

Gordon B. Hinckley has said: “I wish today to speak of forgiveness. I think it may be the greatest virtue on earth, and certainly the most needed. There is so much of meanness and abuse, of intolerance and hatred. There is so great a need for repentance and forgiveness. It is the great principle emphasized in all of scripture, both ancient and modern.”  General Conference Address, 2005.

Note:  It does seem to me that this does not mean that we would not participate, as a witness, for example, in the prosecution of a criminal act.  To my way of thinking, we could forgive the person in our hearts and still comply with our legal duty as citizens to assist in enforcing the law.   (Roger)

My sister Thea photographed this perfect rose from her garden.  A rose is often a symbol of love and forgiveness.