Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots to divide his clothing.
(Luke 23.34 NRSV)
Ernest Campbell wrote over twenty-five years ago about a clergyman in Boston who for some reason had inflamed the anger of a woman in his parish. This woman wrote poison pen letters to the minister, and she was tireless in her efforts to build up dissension against him in that congregation.

After this unpleasant relationship had spent itself over many years, quite unexpectedly the woman moved to Arizona. Many months later this clergyman received a letter from her saying simply that she had had a change of heart and that she was enormously sorry for what she had done. She begged the pastor's forgiveness. The minister telegraphed her this message: "Forgiven, forgotten, forever." That's a message from the heart of a strong man.

It takes faith to believe that what others meant for evil God can use for good. It takes faith to move beyond resentment to rekindled love. It takes strong men and women to accomplish such tasks. It can be done. Jesus did it on the cross. Are you strong enough to forgive?

Loving God, help me to be strong enough to forgive. Amen.

Ron Newhouse

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