Refiner’s Fire . . .

Peter Von Winter said, “It is (hu)manlike to punish but godlike to forgive.” Through each of the generations of humanity, forgiveness was necessary for life to continue. We would have destroyed each other if it were not so. Ponder for a moment what

forgiveness is. In ancient humanity being put back right with someone would indicate a getting off course in the friendship and

getting put back on course. It is releasing another from an offense you have suffered. It is like unhooking a fish net that is tangled. It is like getting the knot out of a rope. It is like seeing ahead to better times not dwelling on the past. It is a genuine act of love towards another after their offence.

Many want forgiveness and many do not. Yet, the one who forgives, or not, holds the key to peace for themselves. The one who forgives maintains the power to choose their destiny. The one who chooses not to release the offence is enslaved to it. They waste more life energy nursing and harboring the ill will than the other who caused the harm. Releasing offenses is the way we were made to live. Our human body responds to freedom from offense, not maintaining them. You may pray for justice but seek to forgive. Yes, you can think of an offence greater than one to be forgiven.

A forgiving heart is ready to receive our Lord’s arrival in their life. Are you ready this Christmas season to receive the Christ who lives for you? He forgives us. In honor of Him, should we not do the same for others? Moreover, when the offence is too great, seek the help of the one whose son was executed in the name of selfish pride. God knows about offence. He will help you. Christ is ready, are you?

Dr. Stanley Spence