In your mind, what is the hardest thing you have done or need to do? I’m not going to beat around the bush on that question. I think one of the hardest things anyone has to do is to learn to forgive.
I have heard this quote or some variation of it for years:
To err is human, to forgive, divine-to forgive and forget supernatural.
Some of you may be old enough to remember the movie called Love Story, which starred a very young Ryan O’Neal and Ali McGraw. It was a blockbuster hit for those days (1970) and was actually the first date Jo and I had (it didn’t end well). It contained one of the dumbest statements that I think has ever been made: “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.” Now…that statement assumes that a real relationship will never require saying, “I’m sorry.” Forgiveness should just happen. There should be no special initiative on the part of either party.
But I beg to differ. I hope we are all smart enough to realize any relationship takes time. Marriage. Friendship. Pastor/sheep. And I would be remiss if I left out the part forgiveness plays in any relationship. Forgiveness is never easy, especially when a great wrong has been done to you. Makes you wonder about Joseph doesn’t it?
I believe this may have been his hardest task. This week’s sermon covers that time of his life when his brothers come seeking grain because of the famine. He recognizes them immediately but they don’t recognize him. There is quite an exchange which takes place until his “great revelation.” It will be a challenging sermon for all of us. I’d appreciate your prayers as I prepare. Thanks.
I have to agree, Bill, that the line from Love Story is the dumbest one ever! Forgiveness is a necessity in every relationship. Will keep you in my prayers!
Praying for you and your flock as you bring them God’s Word on a topic that many are reluctant to hear.
By the way, if you can find it, watch the comedy, “What’s Up, Doc?” It also stars Ryan O’Neill and near the end of the movie he mentions that line from “Love Story!. You will love it! Haha!
That’s one of my favorite stories in the Bible. I can’t ever read it without being emotionally moved. Joseph had the heart of our Father.
It’s a great story and reminder of how we’re called to conduct our spiritual lives; hurt, but still loving…
Praying for you.