Wednesday, 30 July, 2003

We continue a brief walk with some material on reconciliation by Walter Wink.



In the final analysis, we forgive the enemy for the sake of the enemy’s own soul. The Greek term which is translated “to forgive” in the New Testament is aphiemi, “to let go, loose, set free, acquit, dismiss, remit.” Notice that the direction is all toward the other, not toward oneself. By forgiving we set the other free. How? By removing from her or his shoulders the burden of our enmity. We free the other to deal with God. It is now up to them to encounter the living God with their own sin and guilt. It is now no longer a matter that presses on us, but on the other and God.



Though Wink says that we are actually setting the other person free when we forgive, it is important to consider the position of the one who forgives. The one who forgives must be one who stands on the grace of God and is able to see him or her self as beloved by God and from that foundation the day and everything that goes on within it is seen through the eyes of God’s grace. In essence, I must see myself as full of a worth that cannot be damaged by any one…any one. Therefore, even though I may walk through the valley of darkness and feel as though I have been spit upon, I fear no one and I am free to engage the world – all of it – out of the reservoir of love that God continues to pour upon me…now…and always. Forgiveness then becomes a way to participate in that unconditional love that has the power to transform and renew the lives of all it touches. This is not an easy thing to consider. That is why we continue to pray: Come, Holy Spirit! Come!



Connection: Much of the radical adventure we enter as followers of Jesus is strengthened and given vision by our constant reflection of God’s love for us. It involves much reflection and prayer and is always followed by action in life.



Lord God, you set us free and call us to be a part of the liberating love that comes into the world for all people. Encourage us Lord, for it is not within the pattern of our lives to be loving even to the point of rescuing those we would rather let fall behind. Inspire us to walk in the light of your gracious Reign and find peace for ourselves and our world. Amen.