- Sr. Rosy Malekudy FHGS
“Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6:37)
“Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them; they do not know what they are doing.’” (Luke 23:34) Forgiveness acknowledges that we all carry wounds, and thus, we all have something to forgive. Often, those who wound us the most are those closest to us. Although it’s challenging, forgiveness liberates us from the heavy burden of grudges, resentment, the desire for revenge, speechlessness, anxiety, etc., which are generally detrimental to our well-being.
Forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing someone from their responsibility for their faults. Excusing presupposes justification, where there’s no room for forgiveness and genuine healing.
Forgiveness involves taking some blame upon ourselves, even when the other person bears part of the responsibility. It also doesn’t equate to forgetting. While we can forgive, the memory of the painful event and the people involved might linger.
True forgiveness means being willing to bless and wish well for the offender. There’s no place for lingering resentment or desire for revenge. Continuously dwelling on the hurt caused doesn’t align with forgiveness. Instead, forgiveness includes recognizing the worth and goodness of the offender and being ready to support them in their times of need.
It’s an act of the will guided by certain convictions and principles; therefore, forgiveness is a choice. Offering forgiveness is one of the most precious gifts one can give, benefiting both the offender and oneself. The real challenge lies in forgiving when no excuse for the wrongdoing is apparent. It’s showing mercy even when the harm was intentional. Forgiveness holds the power to heal both the one who committed the offense and the one who was harmed.
While working on his renowned painting ‘The Last Supper,’ Leonardo da Vinci engaged in a heated argument with a colleague. He responded with bitter words and threatening gestures. Later, Da Vinci returned to his canvas, attempting to paint the face of Jesus but found himself unable to make a single stroke. It struck him that the problem lay within. He set aside his brush, sought out the person he had offended, and asked for forgiveness. Only then did he peacefully resume painting the face of Jesus.
“Forgiveness is humanity’s deepest need and greatest accomplishment.”
