How ‘bout that Forgiveness?

Forgiveness…such a beautiful word when we think about receiving it. Especially the wonderful forgiveness that God gives to us. But when it comes to giving forgiveness, the beauty of the word seems to fade. We often feel we need time to overcome hurt feelings or scars that run deep. Forgiveness becomes an internal foe with whom we must wrestle until the battle is won or lost. Is it possible to forgive instantly and immediately? Maybe the secret is what Patrick discovered during his lonely exile. That is, to be so close to God that at every moment one is in a state of preparedness to forgive quickly and instantly. The reward for forgiving is joy, peace and the ability to hear the voice of God. The quicker we forgive the sooner we get the reward and that, folks, is worth the struggle! ….Contributed by Laura Weeks