Regional Synod of Canada - Reformed Church in America

Pioneer Christian Monthly

Date - Jan/86

Contributor - Rita Pluim

Title - Pluim Time (Forgiveness)

Topic - Forgiveness

The house is quiet after the children left for school and Bob for work. The sun shining through the picture window enhances the beauty of the newly decorated home. The dog and cat have cuddled up together for a nap. This whole scene displays a picture of peace. However, the only human occupant of the house is anything but peaceful. She remembers vividly last night's argument with her husband.

Bob was so stubborn, he would not listen to anything she said and this happens so often and then it gets him into trouble. Just last year he lost quite a bit of money in that business adventure and yet now he wants to get involved in this other deal. You would expect him to learn from his mistakes! Come to think of it, he is always involved in one thing or another. If it is not a business, it is some charitable organization. It just is not fair; all these activities do not leave him much time for the children or me ... and on and on go Laurie's stormy thoughts and accusations.

Laurie's day is a total waste, she is unable to appreciate the sunshine and the peace and beauty of her home. Yes, Bob has his faults but to dwell on them blows them out of proportion, just as it robs Laurie of peace.

How much better to forgive and forget the other person's faults and mistakes, after a all, none of us is infallible. A whole new year lies ahead of us; it is new with no mistakes in it yet, it can be a good year with a good start if one starts with a clean slate. Unforgiveness robs one of peace. How difficult it is to forgive others and not only forgive but also forget? It is only when we truly forgive that we can experience God's peace, and once experienced, it becomes easier to forgive the other person, whether they ask for it or not. Remember what Jesus taught us, "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses" (Matthew 6:14 and 15)

God want to forgive us but it is up to us to which extent He is able to do so.

Go ahead and practice true forgiveness in this new year, starting with your spouse and children, and then extending it to everyone, including yourself.

May the Peace of God, which is beyond all understanding, be yours in the year ahead.

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