Scripture

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NRSV)

So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation; everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!

Consider

When we confess our belief in Jesus as Lord, we are reborn into a new identity. God’s gift of grace and forgiveness transforms us into children of light, beloved ones who belong to God. The Father no longer sees us as hopeless sinners but as holy image-bearers of Christ’s goodness and mercy. Our offenses are overlooked under the mantle of Christ’s righteousness.

Among our human relationships, however, offenses too often are spotlighted and trigger distortions in our perceptions of one another. In the moment we take offense, for example, we may redefine someone’s character according to his or her offensive act. That person whom we had trusted is now a liar, a betrayer, an adulterer, a thief. An enemy. Qualities we had valued, such as thoughtfulness or cheerfulness, now seem hollow and deceptive.

We may think such negative recasting of this person’s identity shields us from further harm. In fact, it cocoons us in a distorted reality that keeps us isolated, bitter, and immovable.

Forgiveness is a powerful act of grace that breaks us out of our self-made cocoon. In forgiving we recast into a positive light the person who hurt us. We begin to see a sinner much like ourselves, struggling in a world of temptation, yet so loved by God that Jesus was sent to die in this person’s place. In forgiving we free ourselves to love and care for this person again, to value the positive qualities we once recognized, and to envision a new relationship unstained by the offense or our unmet expectations.

Pray

FATHER, you have covered my sins with the righteous blood of Jesus, yet I have been selfish with the grace and mercy you shower on me. Help me to be generous with those who sin against me, remembering that your love is infinite and your mercy is meant to be shared. I pray for the desire to overlook offenses and to be the love and light of Christ in all my relationships.

Reflect

Psalm 32:1-2; 103:12;  2 Corinthians 5:18-20

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How can being created new in Christ make a difference in your relationships?