“If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” Luke 17:3-5
How do I forgive someone who refuses to repent? When a coworker constantly gives me dirty-looks? A relative’s never ending racist jokes. A sibling’s broken promises. A drunk, a gossip, a liar.
Jesus tells us to forgive seventy seven times, but he also tells us to treat the unrepentant as a pagan or tax collector, Matthew 18: 15-17. What am I to do with the unrepentant that might not be a Christian, or belongs to another church and refuses discussion? Do I bite my tongue and keep smiling? Do I practice forgiveness with my mouth and hope my heart will follow? Should I shake the dust from my feet and walk away? Perhaps just pray for a miracle, either in me or them?
Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34. These people are not nailing me to the cross and casting lots for my clothes. Yet, I am hesitant to forgive the unrepentant who seem to know what they are doing and don’t care that it offends others. Perhaps they have no ability to change and choose to hide their helplessness in bravado.
I have decided to set forgiveness aside for the unrepentant. Instead, I will pray for their happiness. Pray that they may find Jesus and understand his love for them. Pray their burdens will be lighter. Pray they will enter a Bible study designed especially for them. Pray that I may be one of the people to offer them a cool glass of water when they are parched. An offer made without obligation or expectation.
Dear Lord, you are my joy and my delight. May I offer happiness and joy to others as you offer it to me. Your love is as underserved as a small child, throwing a temper tantrum, being scooped up and hugged without reservation.
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