Perhaps the most powerful aspect of the Amish school shooting story is the response of the Amish to the brutal murder of their children: forgiveness.
Mark Daniels has some great reflections on how the Amish are able to genuinely forgive the perpetrator, pray for his widow, and grieve over his brokenness.
Forgiveness, as Mark writes, is not approval, does not imply God's acceptance of the sin, and does not replace the need for justice.
For more on what forgiveness is and why we must extend it to others, see Mark's post.
Do any of you have any stories to share of struggling to forgive?
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
"How can the Amish forgive?"
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3 comments:
I was very angry with my grandpop. Long story - his alzheimers changed him into a combative, vile, mean, nasty, selfish old man. He really put the family through hell. I was still angry even after he died.
A few months after the funeral, I had a dream about him. I saw him on a bed - body twisted and mangled, nightmarish. In my dream, he was frightened because he could see what he looked like. I should have been frightened too but instead I picked him up and comforted him. I was finally able to let go of the anger.
I knew he wasn't perfect and the disease brought out all his worst qualities (lies and past infidelity surfaced). But I was still very angry with him for putting the family through it.
I can honestly say I've forgiven him now and I try to remember how he was before he got sick and not focus on the last two years.
First of all, Des Moines Girl, your story is powerful. And in speaking of "letting go," you describe the essence of the Biblical understanding of forgiveness as release: a release of the one forgiven and a release for those of us who forgive. Wonderful story!
Also, thank you, Jeff, for your kind words and for linking to the post! It means so much knowing that someone I have come to so respect would recommend a piece I've written.
Blessings in Christ,
Mark
Des Moines Girl,
Thanks for sharing your story. I'm sorry that Alzheimers took away the grandfather you loved. I'm glad you've been able to find forgiveness. It really is freeing, isn't it?
I've had a hard time coming to forgive a former coworker who lied to cover for someone whom he knew might have been hurting our children.
Mark,
Thank you for your very grace-filled words.
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