In the midst of emotional turmoil and pain, one key ingredient must be on one’s ongoing “to do” list throughout tragedy. Without this critical component, no sense of peace may ensue. Mistakes are made on all counts as one reels from the hardships of suffering. No one is immune from making errors that rage throughout the fires of affliction.
Through all the challenges of enduring and surviving a family tragedy, all the players involved need to look at one spiritual resource—forgiveness. Sometimes forgiveness is asked by the offender; another perpetrator sees no need to make amends. Whether motivated from active aggression, abandonment or ignorance, forgiveness is essential even if not requested by the offender.
Forgiveness is not easy. It takes prayer and communion with God: realizing as He is ready to forgive His followers so must we do the same with those personally violating us. By seeing Christ on the cross innocently bleeding for our sins, forgiveness, by faith, can happen.
It often takes time for the forgiving feelings to follow especially if the relationship continues to be strained. However, God honors the forgiving heart by extending His love and peace to us amidst the pain and suffering.
Addendum: After this recent post went online, a good friend called to remind me that for the believer forgiveness is not an option. Check out Matthew 18:21-35…Thanks, Earl!