A Leap in the Dark

One of the most difficult features for making forgiveness a reality is seeing meaning and purpose in the suffering that was experienced. This insight creates a pathway for moving forward to discover and accept how others also suffered. Isaiah 53:3 describes Jesus as being “despised and rejected, a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief.”

It’s critically important to understand that forgiveness serves as a  bridge to healing the wounds that caused so much suffering. Transforming a desire to forgive into reality takes courage and faith. Henry David Thoreau said, "We walk consciously part way toward our goal, and then it may take a leap in the dark to secure our objective."

 

There's a timeframe when we're suspended in darkness waiting to see if forgiveness is accepted, yet it’s imperative to take the initiative to seek forgiveness regardless of the cost. The Apostle Paul states emphatically, "I want to know Christ and the fellowship of sharing his suffering."  Forgiveness is the pathway to freedom and joy. 

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When people sin, you should forgive and comfort them, so they won’t give up in despair. You should make them sure of your love for them.

~2 Corinthians 2:7-8 Contemporary English Version

For he has rescued us out of the darkness and gloom of Satan’s kingdom and brought us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who bought our freedom with his blood and forgave us all our sins.

~Colossians 1:13-14 The Living Bible

Forgiveness Revisited

When C. S. Lewis lay dying, his final thoughts were on forgiveness. He was struggling to forgive a cruel and harsh elementary teacher from his childhood. He had forgiven this individual as a young man and again as a middle-aged adult and now felt compelled to complete the task before he breathed his final breath.

What is incredibly important to understand about C. S. Lewis’ experience is that forgiveness is being completed at various stages throughout life. C. S. Lewis could never forget the trauma he experienced from this teacher. He understood that the only way to let go of the bitterness was to forgive him for the pain he felt so deeply.

It's often at the crossroads of adult development where forgiveness needs to be revisited. God’s wisdom and compassion aid us in forgiving at a deeper level. As Lewis lay dying, he again offered forgiveness to the person responsible for his suffering. The Holy Spirit brings to our awareness what needs to be forgiven so we can have a clear conscience.  

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It is truly wonderful when the people of God live together in peace.

~Psalm 133:1 Contemporary English Version

When people sin, you should forgive and comfort them, so they won’t give up in despair. You should make them sure of your love for them.

~2 Corinthians 2:7-8 Contemporary English Version

Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.

~2 Corinthians 13:11 New International Version