Over forty years ago, while completing a major construction project, a union strike nearly brought the work to a screeching halt. A seasoned project manager said about the labor-vs-management animosity, “There’s been a lot of trench-digging over the years. It’s time for someone to do a little back-filling.”
Is it possible to truly be thankful to God while unforgiveness boils away in your heart?
Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. Matthew 6:11-14
What’s the function of that conjunction? The conjunction and binds your daily provision to your willingness to forgive. Stating this another way, forgiveness is a prerequisite to a wonderful life.
In Spanish, Thanksgiving Day translates to el Día de Acción de Gracias – the Day of Action. Giving thanks is an action, not a holiday, not an elaborate meal, it’s something to do.
Regardless what trenches have been dug between you and others, this is an excellent opportunity for some back-filling.
Perhaps an amendment to your usual-and-customary Thanksgiving feast is intentional forgiveness of all who have lied about you, mistreated you, stolen from you, abused you, or misused you.
As recorded in Matthew 27:14, Jesus did not answer his accusers. When was the last time your answer to an accusation dissuaded your accuser? Never? Just let it go.
Years ago, I chose to follow Jesus’ lead. I never answer accusations because accusations are rejections. Are accusations painful? Yes, but there is a sure cure. The pain reliever of forgiveness is closer than your medicine cabinet, cost you nothing, and results are guaranteed.
Warning: Forgiveness is Addictive
Forgiveness is the secret ingredient to a wonderful life and a recipe for a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration.
John White
Rockwall, Texas
