Forgiveness

Obviously, there are sincere Christians who have mixed emotions about the acquittal of the President of the United States from the impeachment brought upon him by the House of Representatives. This article is not about supporting or not supporting the party of the President, rather what we as Christians need to do when we have found ourselves in a situation where we have been offended. Use whatever “offended” synonym word you want; violated, abused, manipulated, deceived, betrayed, go ahead pick your “poison” definition. Throughout the years, I've had several friends and acquaintances who post their opinions on Facebook, Twitter, etc. about their support or lack thereof for the POTUS (President Of The United States). My goal is each of us will check our hearts and see how real our Christianity is, in this activated arena of politics and what believe to be the truth, especially as it relates to forgiveness. President Trump has recently been acquitted of all charges, which means, he stood before a jury and the jury has returned a verdict of “not guilty”. Many believe he is still “guilty,” just watch the news or go on any social media site and you will understand my observations. Often our feelings about one political party or the other, or one candidate or the other, is based upon our history and our family values as we choose to support a Republican or a Democrat (or any other political party). I’m not sure which topic is more sensitive – your favorite football team (Go Pa…..!) or your favorite political party (Make America G…!) Both can create massive levels of division and animosity. Whether you believe President Trump is guilty or not guilty is irrelevant. What matters now that he has been acquitted is what will you as a Christian do in offering forgiveness? For those who support the POTUS, will you forgive those who have attacked him so viciously? His accusers felt as if they were doing the right thing on behalf of their political party. You must forgive. And for those who believe President Trump is guilty and doesn’t deserve to be the POTUS, you believe the House Managers proved their case beyond a shadow of a doubt. You, as a follower of Jesus, must forgive because the Scriptures are very clear on how we must respond. This same truth holds validity and application in all areas of life. You must forgive! As a follower of Jesus, you cannot hold aught against anyone. Especially someone in this fellowship, or your home, or in your extended family, or the person who you told for better or worse. The power of forgiveness is so amazing, not only does it free you from the offense, but it frees you from your own pain which holds you captive. “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34