for redemption. Regardless of who they are or what they’ve done, they deserve the opportunity to be redeemed from the state they got themselves into. If they sincerely regret their actions/words then, if we expect to have our second chance, we have to accord others this same opportunity. Without question
change is the key. Without change was there really any remorse for what was done? Do they display an attitude of change, of not repeating the words/actions?
Without the opportunity for redemption we really are doomed. But with the opportunity for this changed state, we also can’t deny the opportunity for someone else. And sometimes… at least intellectually, we do. What they did was so heinous that they don’t even deserve the opportunity to make restitution would be our indictment. Fair? Right? However, right and fair are truly irrelevant – we have clear guidelines that we must forgive.
It is extremely important that our mindset toward ourselves be extended to others. When we don’t allow that others have the ‘chance’ for redemption, then we are really measuring the same judgment on ourselves. Besides… we aren’t the redeemer. We may withhold some of our willingness to trust again, but we can’t withhold forgiveness. And the other person’s subsequent actions and words will be ‘proof’ of their changed attitude.
What if the other person ‘slips’ and repeats the behavior? Remember Jesus’ words to Peter when he asked Him how often forgiveness should be extended (Matthew 18:21-22)? Seventy times seven certainly puts a ‘forever’ stamp on it. Our focus should be on extending the hand of forgiveness, realizing that we too have slipped at times. Redemption is what none of us deserve, yet it is extended to all. There is a response and responsibility to we who have been redeemed – to not repeat the actions that caused the issue(s) in the first place.
…but, what do you think?
