Freedom

I remember reading that when poet Elizabeth Barrett-Browning was first married, her father disapproved so strongly that she had to elope. In fact, the couple moved to Italy where they lived out the rest of their lives. Even though her parents had disowned her, Elizabeth never gave up on the relationship. Almost weekly she wrote them letters. Not once did they reply. After 10 years, she received a large box in the mail. Inside, Elizabeth found all of her letters. Not even one had been opened!

That’s a story about what happens when forgiveness doesn’t happen. How sad!

Jesus taught us that forgiveness is central to life. It is central to our relationship with others. And, it is central to our relationship with God. When we forgive others, when we let go of our anger, bitterness, and resentment, we find true freedom.

Let us pray: Gracious God, you know the wrongs that have been done to us. You know the people who have hurt us and the wounds and burdens that we carry. Have mercy on us, O God. Help us to let go, to turn the past over to you. We want to be healthy and whole. So we pray that your forgiveness and grace would wash over us. And then, Gracious God, help us to forgive with the forgiveness we have received, that new beginnings may be ours through Jesus Christ. Amen.