“Look with the eyes of your love upon our many imperfections” (LCC)
There is a lot of discussion out there about women and the topic of forgiveness; who can give it and who is deserving of it.
Each day, as children of a loving God, we make choices and decisions based on what one perceives to be right or wrong. Sometimes the decisions are life changing and sometimes they are not. Only the person making the choice can discern inside her/himself what the spiritual consequences are and how to proceed, with the power of the Spirit leading the way.
The psalmist writes, “Be merciful to me, God, because of your constant Love”, therefore God is loving and merciful.
We are misinformed to believe another flawed individual, since none of us are perfect, has the ‘divine power’ to grant mercy or forgiveness. The truth, is we can go directly to God through prayer seeking mercy and forgiveness.
Of course, God works through others and we can ask another for support or inspiration. One can intercede and ask God to help anyone who suffers from unworthiness or an old memory; allowing the for the power of the Light of Christ to shine forth truth and understanding.
In the end, it always comes down to two key players; self and God.
Jesus spoke about forgiveness two times. First, when asked by one John’s followers about how to pray; the complete, perfect, “Lord’s Prayer” was birthed. In this context, the line we focus on is: “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” This covers both sides of the street. If I have harmed myself or another through action or deed, I can ask for forgiveness and receive it.
Next, we have Jesus’ final words: God, “Forgive them for they know not what they do.” Hilda Charlton wrote, “God forgive us our ignorance. We do not understand your ways that you have worked everything out right for us. God free the heart of everybody and to be free souls in a free world.”
I’ve included Don Henley’s song, “The Heart of the Matter.” I use this song on my retreats when we discuss the topic of Forgiveness. Enjoy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YuOCM2V-Uk
“Jesus, I am letting go. No more anger, no more pain. I just want to be whole again.” (Awakening the Inner Ticker of Life, pg.62)