Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Forgetful Forgiveness at Easter

Forgiveness is so important in family life. Our failure to offer or even receive forgiveness results in unrest and lack of joy. It has to happen in order for us to enjoy peace.

The Bible is teaching me to forgive my children when they fail and to assure them that I will not return where we were, nor will we remember that again. Each time I do that, I remember God’s forgiveness. This kind of forgetful forgiveness helps us move forward without being stuck in the past.

Forgiveness is necessary for spiritual growth. In Philippians 3:13-14, Paul urged us to “forget those things which are behind”, so we can be successful Christians without the burdens of guilt. One cannot be one’s best while still carrying the burden of mistakes, failures, and sins. God knows it and wants us to be free. In Isaiah 43:25, the Lord tells us that He will not remember our sins. When we confess our sins, He forgives and does not remember them anymore. We must each trust this wonderful truth.

Easter is a powerful reminder for us of God’s perfect love and forgiveness. Let us rejoice with thankful hearts knowing He loves us and remembers not our past sins.