When was the last time you were hurt by someone? What is the worst thing that ever happened to you, related to a family or friend situation, and are you over it?
Anger can be a ruthless and debilitating emotion. Anger can ruin a person’s life if they harbor resentment and bad feelings that persists from a life event. Anger can ruin their outlook on their daily life and can impact future friendships and relationships. The weight of anger is too heavy for any of us to bare over a long period of time as it can impact generations of families.
John 18 speaks of Jesus’ arrest that ultimately led to his trial, conviction, and crucifixion. The most amazing thing about the story of Jesus, to me, is that he knew of His fate all along and still suffered and died a horrific death for us. Chapter 18 speaks of Judas, who led the guards to capture Jesus. Jesus predicted Judas’ betrayal. Four disciples recorded Jesus’ knowledge of this betrayal in Matthew 26:24-25, Mark 14:18-21, Luke 22:21-23, and John 13:21-30. Judas continued to travel and be close to our Savior up until the end, and Jesus knew he would betray him, and Jesus still loved him.
Simon Peter, arguably one of Jesus’ closest confidants, denied knowing or associating with Jesus three times after His capture. Jesus predicted Peter’s denial at the Last Supper as was chronicled by the same four disciples, in Matthew 26:33-35, Mark 14:29-31, Luke 22:33-34, and John 13:36-38. How do you think Jesus felt knowing that one of closest friends would deny knowing Him?
The most perfect and sinless person ever to walk the earth was hurt by His friends. He was a perfect person who hated no one, never said an ill word, and in fact, healed people who were suffering. And yet, he still had friends that turned on Him.
Sometimes forgiveness may not make sense. You were hurt badly. Some reading his have endured situations and heartache that I cannot imagine. How could someone do that to you? Perhaps others around us encourage us to seek revenge and prolong the negativity.
I am reminded of a profound act of forgiveness related to a terrible tragedy when a police officer shot and killed a man in his own apartment, incorrectly thinking he was an intruder. Brandt Jean is the victim’s brother and he publicly stated his forgiveness of the officer, Amber Guyger. Watch Mr. Jean’s statement here.
Forgiveness is freeing. Forgiveness might not make sense or be supported by those around you. True forgiveness releases the burden of anger, resentment, and ultimately the desire for revenge. What may seem like the impossible act of forgiveness will release your burden and free you of the long-term resentment and despair.
Jesus modeled true forgiveness. He willingly ministered to mankind, to save all of us, knowing he would ultimately be resented and killed for the mission God gave Him.
Heavenly Father, Free us from our burdens and open our hearts to forgiveness. We know you, Jesus, were the most forgiving and selfless person to ever walk the Earth. Help us to know you, praise you, and live like you did. Freeing ourselves from the burden and weight of anger and resentment is how you showed us how to live. Thank you for showing us the way to live a better life. Amen.
