In Henri Nouwen’s book The Return of the Prodigal Son, he says that the way to spiritual fatherhood is forgiveness. It is through constant forgiveness that we become like the Father.
I have often said I forgive you but even as I said these words, my heart remained angry or resentful.
I still wanted to hear the story that tells me that I was right after all; I still wanted to hear apologies and excuses. I still wanted the satisfaction of receiving some praise in return.
But God’s forgiveness is unconditional; it comes from a heart that does not demand anything for itself, a heart that is completely empty of sell-seeking.
It is this divine forgiveness that I have to practice in my daily life. It demands that I step over the wounded part of my heart that feels hurt and wronged and that wants to stay in control and put a few conditions between me and the one whom I as asked to forgive.
This stepping over is the authentic discipline of forgiveness.
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