A message from Mr Vogler, Deputy Principal
The Power of Forgiveness
Forgiving someone can be one of the most difficult things to do in your life. Yet, it’s through forgiveness that God heals our deepest wounds, and frees us from our prisons of anger, hate, self-pity, and self-contempt. But, what does forgiveness really look like?
Forgiveness is at the crux of our Christian faith. Jesus died on the cross for the forgiveness of sins (Luke 24:46-47, Matthew 26:28). In turn, God commands that we forgive those who sin against us: “As the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive” (Colossians 3:13)
How important is forgiveness? “But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins (Matthew 6:15 NIV).” This sounds harsh, and some people stumble over it, fearing they might lose their salvation if they do not forgive.
What does forgiveness really look like?
True heart forgiveness is taking the matter to God, knowing that he has forgiven us far more than we will be required to forgive others. This relies on us alone as the hurt person. Doing this, releases us from the bitterness that we may feel from someone that has hurt us. This does not mean we forget what has happened or that there are no consequences for the persons actions. It does mean that we do not continually dwell on the hurt.
Once we have gone to God with the hurt, we can seek to reconcile with the person(s). Knowing this relies on both parties being willing to reconcile. We must also understand that in some circumstances this is not possible. The good thing is, even if we cannot reconcile, we have been able to forgive the person due to what Christ has done for us.
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone”. (Romans 12:18)
Prayer Points
- Praise God for his Gospel that unites us.
- Ask God that we would be compassionate, kind, humble, gentle, patient and loving to each other.
- Pray that God would supply the needs of our College.
- Ask God for the ability to forgive and set aside hurt and grievances, being gentle so we can bear with one another. Just as Jesus has done for us.
- Thank God for the wonderful gift and talents of the students.
- Thank God for the wonderful ESO’s at our College.
