The Shadow of Your Wings

Mt 6:14,15 “… if you forgive men for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions.”

I’ve been thinking a lot about forgiveness lately. 70 x 7. I remember reading a Chinese proverb years ago that comes to mind often -

“Forgiving the unrepentant is like drawing stick figures on the water.”

At first thought one realizes it is a futile effort, but when held to Christ’s light it gleams with the truth of seventy times seven … over and over and over. That is the gift and grace of forgiveness.

When my sister and I were kids our dad would end arguments between us by making us tell each other we were sorry, “Sorreeee,” and then requiring us to “Kiss and make up.” “EEEWWWWW!” Didn’t help us learn much about forgiveness, but it did effectively bring an end to the tension as we burst into giggles and tossed a run by kiss in the other’s direction.

So, let’s see how this works … “Sorreee.” “Forgive me.” Wow - totally different attitude. The first claims no responsibility, is in truth a thoughtless, childish gesture offered without repentance. The second is a humble admission of wrongdoing and a plea that things be made right.

Which most accurately portrays my approach to God? Which should reflect our attitude of apology to others? Are we so secure in our relationship with the Lord, or our parents, children, siblings, friends that we think a quick “sorry” tossed their way will automatically insure forgiveness? Do we even recognize our need to be forgiven? Or the other person’s desire to forgive?

It occurs to me that there is a flip side to this proverb: Repenting before the unforgiving is like drawing stick figures on the water. hmmm …..

I seem to spend a lot of time sketching on the pond, forgiving those who have no thought of repenting or even apologizing, expressing my sorrow to those who don’t want to forgive. Lead me beside the still waters, Lord. Restore my soul,” and my peace, and my joy.

What a precious gift it is to be able to “come boldly” to the throne of God, knowing He will forgive, and forget my sins toward Him when I humbly ask. Trusting completely that in Christ I am forgiven, not because I deserve it or can expect it, but because He loves me, faithfully, truly, fully. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 Jo 1:9) How I thank You, Lord.