'Forgiveness is THE mission of the Church'

1. He gives them peace.

2. He sends them into the world.

3. He gives them the Holy Spirit.

4. He tells them to forgive people.

The world is a scary place, and we need peace so we can get our heads on straight. Peace is the quiet reserve needed to step out with confidence. It is also interesting that we are sent, “as the Father has sent me [Jesus].” Jesus was sent to do a lot of things – healing, exercising spirits, feeding, teaching, and forgiving. Jesus could have emphasized any of these, but he chose forgiveness as the key to it all. “If you forgive them anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” Any concern about not forgiving is put to rest with the prayer Jesus taught us. “‘Our Father in heaven…12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors… 14 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matt 6:9-15) It is good to remember that forgiveness is a two-edged sword. Forgiveness is serious business and needs to be handled with care, with grace, with mercy.

The point of this is that Jesus’ mission was to forgive. Forgiveness restores humanity in all ways. Forgiveness heals. Forgiveness breaks chains. Forgiveness allows us to be truly human, flourishing in all ways. Jesus sent and empowered the church to do the same. This week, focus your mission of forgiveness. Who is someone you need to forgive? Who is someone you need to ask forgiveness from? Go ahead. Be at peace, Jesus gives you the Holy Spirit to get the job done.

Blessed to be a blessing,

Jonathan