Forgiveness

Ugh...it's so hard to forgive. I KNOW it's expected of me from my Heavenly Father, but soooo much harder to actually do.

I think it's because you have to be vulnerable to someone who found a weak spot and poked it - over and over. You were hurt & they were the culpret. Now, it's up to you to "hear them out" and allow them a release for their guilt.

Part of me wants to say; "NO. You SHOULD feel guilty! You intentionally hurt me and I want you to feel bad for awhile." But, then that gentle tap happens, an image comes to mind...a Man on a cross, nails, crown of thorns, & whip lashes. Then I think, "What's my pain in comparison? What makes me deserving of heaven & salvation?" Nothing.

So, off I go to dinner tonight to be a teeny-tiny bit like Jesus. To show a former friend that because of God, I have overcome bitterness with the circumstances surrounding our lost friendship & I don't have a hatred for her...I will forgive, because that is what God requires of me, His child. For no other reason than: I was shown more grace than I deserve, from a Father who was without sin, & became sin to save me.

How could I not? And I'm even praying that I can laugh & smile - not to taunt or tease, but to truly reflect the happiness & joy I have inside, because of God's presence in my life.