Pause
Love itself may be at stake. If we are unable to forgive one another, we will not be able to love.
Perhaps this is why we can declare with confidence that God is love; it is because, first, God is forgiving.
With so much at risk, God will see to it that love does not leave room for resentment. Instead, God will lead in the cause of mercy.
Listen
Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
Psalm 32:1-2
Think
As people forgiven by God, the psalmists clues us in to what we should do next: Be happy and rejoice! The final verse in the 32nd psalm says, “Be glad in the Lord and rejoice!”
A few months ago as we celebrated Easter, we rejoiced over the resurrection of Jesus and the new life he brings. Decked out in our pastel Polos and floral sundresses we sang “Hosanna in the highest!” and greeted each other with a robust, “He is risen!” Easter Sunday is a time of great rejoicing in many churches around the world.
Easter has long passed, but today I call us to rejoice still! As an Easter people we are called to practice resurrection every day. We are called to live within the reality of forgiveness. Christ lives and reigns among us each day!
Perhaps we shouldn’t reserve our rejoicing for only Easter, but for every day. So rejoice today! Praise God with a thankful heart for the forgiveness we are gifted with. Be happy, as the psalmist says, and practice forgiveness with all you come in contact with today!
Sara Hunt
Pray
Hosanna! Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest! I rejoice in you today and every day, giving thanks for all the ways you love and forgive me. What a compassionate and generous God you are! Thank you! Amen.
Go
There’s a gate just ahead, inviting you to pass through. It is marked “Forgiveness.” It leads the way to acceptance, confirmation, recognition, being embraced and held. It takes you down the pathway that brings you love.
Reach out and open easily the latch. Step lightly through the gate’s portal. Our forgiving God welcomes you there.
