The Power to Forgive

8 Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, “Why are you thinking these things? 9 Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk’? 10 But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” (Mark 2:8-10)

On Sundays, both in the worship service and in the youth discipleship class we have been making our way through the Gospel of Mark. I have personally been reflecting on these verses from chapter 2 which describe an early example of Jesus’ healing ministry.

In so many ways, Chapter 2 verse 10 stands as a summary of the Good News; “But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” This is the heart of the Gospel message, that Jesus has the authority to forgive sins.

Isn’t it interesting that in some cultures today, even in the minds of some Americans, forgiveness is seen as a sign of weakness? Too often, we are led to believe that we need to seek revenge when we are wronged, not forgiveness. Numerous movie plots and world conflicts revolve around the idea of seeking revenge. The hard part is that when we think this way, we sometimes assume this is also how God operates. We assume that God is one to seek revenge.

Yet, here Jesus outlines that a big part of the Good News is that God invites us to receive his gift of forgiveness.

NT Wright asserts that “Forgiveness is the most powerful thing in the world…” With Wright, I believe this is true, and I also believe that as Jesus’ followers we need to be the people who model this forgiveness to the world.

In order to share forgiveness, we first need to have experienced God’s forgiveness in our own lives. May we be a people known for receiving and offering forgiveness.

Will you pray with me?

Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of forgiveness. Thank you that your forgiveness is accompanied with healing. Healing for hurts, habits, and hang-ups.

As we are healed and forgiven, may we also be those who offer forgiveness and God’s healing to the world. May we realize forgiveness demonstrates more power than revenge ever could.

We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

-Pastor Shawn