Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.- Psalm 51:10
Revenge. Retaliation. Reprimand. Regret. These words represent emotions most of us feel when we have been wronged or hurt by others. The last thing we would want to do is pray for those who have treated us unfairly. When we choose this form of action, anger and unease settle in, thus affecting our own behavior toward others.
As I have grown older and matured in my faith, I have also gained a better understanding of the power of forgiveness. Forgiveness isn’t really all that complicated. It’s only made complicated (and sometimes seemingly impossible) by our humanity. I have come to realize that when I am hurt or mistreated by another, they deserve prayer, not an instant reaction of lashing back. Just as Jesus told his disciples. “But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also;” – Matthew 5:39.
A passion of mine is helping friends and family totally make over a room or rooms in their home. Using existing furniture, art and other objects, we completely clear the room and start the process of putting old things in new places. The end result is a room that looks new and refreshed. It’s a good feeling for the homeowner to walk in and feel happy and energized by the new look.
Take the time this Lenten Season to do a makeover in your own life. Clear your mind and heart and let the Holy Spirit move you to clean out harbored feelings of revenge, retaliation, reprimand, regret, and anger. You too will feel new, refreshed, and energized to focus on the things in life that need your positive attention. Yes, that crazy driver is going to offend you, someone is going to insult you, you will be judged by others. Stop, pray and forgive. The result? The amazing Peace of Christ which surpasses all understanding will overcome you.
Robert Fasol, Organist and Choir Master
