Forgiveness

by Quinn Caldwell | published on Feb 15, 2016

“In Christ God was reconciling the world to Godself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us.” – 2 Corinthians 5:16-21

You know what would make Christianity a lot easier? If we could just do away with this whole “forgiveness” thing.

I mean, none of the other religions requires it. Also, it’s inefficient. Achieving it can take a lifetime. Also, it’s not as fun as holding a grudge, or as just smacking the person who wronged you. Also, that person totally doesn’t deserve forgiveness. They deserve an eye for an eye!  They deserve quid pro quo!  They deserve to feel bad forever!

Also, it’s hard.

On the other hand, doing away with the whole forgiveness requirement would make Christianity a whole lot less, well, Christian.

See, here’s the thing: You think forgiving your ex is hard? Try being a deity, getting a body and entering history to try to bring your creations back to you because you love them so much, and then getting killed by them. Now, that’s hard to forgive.

But somehow, God did. Right? Isn’t that why we’re here? Isn’t that what your church is built on, what inspired the music your choir sings, what made them write the Bible you read, what saved the world you live in?

You know what would make Christianity a lot easier? Doing away with the whole forgiveness thing.

But then, what would be the point?

Prayer

God, I know you wouldn’t ask this of me if you didn’t have a plan for helping me do it. So, thanks for any help you can send my way. 

ddcaldwell_2014.pngAbout the Author
Quinn G. Caldwell is the Pastor of Plymouth Congregational Church, Syracuse, New York.  His most recent book is a series of daily reflections for Advent and Christmas called All I Really Want: Readings for a Modern Christmas. Learn more about it and find him on Facebook at Quinn G. Caldwell.