Forgiveness

Just read a great post by Jennifer Dukes Lee. 'How to deal with people who try to bring you down.'

Such a good reminder. I have been in this place of 'having' to extend grace - how can I not, after everything Jesus has done for me?

But it is the hardest thing. I have found that I have to maintain this attitude, keeping kindness on repeat when I REALLY REALLY want to get revenge, expose the wrongdoer, be openly vindicated.

It brings me closer to God and I recognise - and try to be thankful for - that this hurt and rejection is therefore a useful tool in transforming my character.

Doesn't make it any easier, though!?

Advent. Rejection?

The time is coming. All creation
groans in anticipation
of Your return.

Yet it has already happened. Your
birth, noticed but not accepted
by those who 'matter'.

An evil king sought to destroy
the promised One. We recognise
his motivation.

But what of all those priests and teachers?
Did they not believe the Scriptures?
The written word?

Sometimes I, too, doubt Your promises.
Your words run over my soul
without soaking in.

May I know with deep deep certainty
that the tension in the waiting
is real. You come.