Celebrate Grace-Forgive and be Forgiven
In Matthew 18:21-22 we see clearly that Jesus wants us to forgive each other. About 7 years ago I listened to a sermon by Tim Keller that helped me to understand this passage even better. I do not remember the sermon title but it had something to do with being gospel-centered. The term and concept that hit me the hardest was "exacting punishment". When someone does us wrong we think that we own them some wrong. We may not go about it in a obvious way, but our flesh and hearts wants to get back at that person or people. Well, for the christian, Jesus has received all the payment, that includes our paybacks. Jesus has carried the weight of the offence and has taken the ultimate payment for it. So why do I need to get back or be bitter with anyone? Why do I bow up with pride when I feel someone is attacking me or someone I love? Now, am not saying that we need to carelessly let people walk on us, but we need to reconsider how we respond when someone wrongs us, our friends, or our families.
In light of what Jesus did, I should seek to follow His example...forgive. God had every right to leave us in our sins and just punishment. We wronged Him. This is a holy offence, not just a "hey, she hit me offence". God made a way for us to be forgiven in Jesus. He took our sins and died in our place. I need to be cross centered in my relationships when someone wrongs me.
I think that this is a hard thing to do, but it is freeing. I can go on with my day and life thanking God for his provision for my sin and the sins of my friends. I don't need to even exact punishment for those who will never trust in Jesus because they will, sadly, receive the wrath of God. I do not wish or hope this on anyone. I have no place to exact punish on anyone.
Now wars are a thing of protection, but that is a thought for another day.
So what grace is there to be celebrated here? It is the grace of Jesus forgiving us and making us able to forgive others based on His payment. If believers would live in this covenant community lifestyle we would see the Spirit show us so much peace that is found in trusting God in this area.
Do I desire peace? Am I a peacemaker? A good book on this is Peacemaker by Ken Sande.
I will cleanse them from all the guilt of their sin against me, and I will forgive all the guilt of their sin and rebellion against me.
Jeremiah 33:8
