What does it mean to have "grace"? I once heard it means "God's riches at Christ expense". That catchy acronym may be a good way to understand it. The dictionary defines it as "free and unmerited favor of God." It is also kindness we do not deserve because all of us are sinners. 1 Corinthians 6:11(NIV) says 'And such were some of you but you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.'
In the movie "Amish Grace" which is based on the true story of the Amish School shootings in Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania back on Palm Sunday, March 28,2010. When we hear of school shootings it is shocking enough and we can be flooded with all sorts of emotions. When I learned of the Amish School house shootings it was hard to imagine who would go into a one room school house and target only Amish girls. Most people would want revenge, lawsuits, and hate to be shown to this man and his family. Instead with the news media present these Amish dealing with their own loss and pain forgiving this man and his family. They held no grudges. And they went to the funeral of the killer when no one else cared to.
I guess we could certainly learn a lesson from the Amish. Humanly we may want to strike out and get back at people who have hurt us or killed a family member or friend but God's way is always greater and higher than that. These hurting grieving people reached out and forgave. Forgiveness is the quickest way to healing.
What are you dealing with in your life today? Maybe there was a wrongful death? Perhaps no one has murdered a family member or something that drastic but is there someone you feel does not deserve forgiveness? You will feel better if you can genuinely let go of your hatred and give it to God. Even try praying for your enemies. It says we are to do that in Matthew 5:44. 'But I tell you , love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.' I didn't say it, God did.
PRAYER: Father sometimes I find it hard to let go and forgive. I know through you I can learn to do this. I know your son Jesus died on the cross and said to "forgive them for they knew not what they did" so help me Lord to be able to do this if I have to or need to. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click link below for a powerful song of praise to start your Sunday!
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