Someone has said, “Forgiveness is the best form of love. It takes a strong person to say I’m sorry but an even stronger person to forgive.” (original source unknown)
Perhaps we would agree regarding the strength on either side as noted. As imperfect beings we should also agree we can (and will) find ourselves on either side; being the one asking for forgiveness and the one extending it. However, another essential element on both sides is that of humility.
When Jesus told the parable of the Pharisee and tax collector going to the temple to pray (Luke 18:9-14), He noted a stark contrast in the manner in which they approached their praying. The prayer of the Pharisee seemed to be more of a brag session as he appeared to begin patting himself on the back for how good he had been. That lofty view caused him to look down on others. (Luke 18:11) However, we read the tax collector’s approach and the point of Jesus’ parable. . .
“(13) But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ (14) I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”” (Luke 18:13-14 ESV)
Here was a penitent sinner humbling himself before God. He is the one Jesus noted at going home justified. Having duly humbled himself before God, it was he who in the end was exalted. He received the mercy he needed.
Now, in Jesus’ parable of the unmerciful servant (Matthew 18:23-35), the one who had been forgiven the larger debt refused to forgive a lesser debt despite his fellow servant’s plea being the same as his own. (Matthew 18:26 and 29) We then read. . .
““(32) Then his master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. (33) And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ (34) And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. (35) So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”” (Matthew 18:32-35 ESV)
He refused to extend the mercy he had received. He ought to have humbly remembered he had been forgiven what he never could have repaid and so in humility been willing to forgive the lesser debt. In the same way we ought to humbly acknowledge how much more God has forgiven us than we will be called upon to forgive others.
Humility is an essential element in seeking forgiveness. Humility is also an essential element for extending forgiveness since we must maintain a proper perspective of how much forgiveness we ourselves have already received. In maintaining a spirit of humility, we have the opportunity to uplift others and to also receive the blessing of the exalting that God will do! May we remain humble before God and in our interactions with others!
Have a great day LIVING IN THE STRENGTH OF HUMILITY!
Carl
