Forgiveness

Here's one for you. Proof that our academics are finding things that improve our lives. Researchers at ASU have discovered that "people who learn to seek and grant forgiveness for harmful behavior are less angry, isolated and violent." Given our national climate of strife, conflict, and violence, this is a singularly important find.

The researchers have determined that forgiveness is a “teachable” process. It involves accountability for harm we bring to one another, and learning to be empathetic and compassionate. When community members learn that forgiveness is a viable option, they often choose to let go of bitterness, grudges and the desire for retribution. The result can be more respectful and peaceful relationships.

Shocked, I tell you. Completely shocked. That these secular researchers would make these kinds of discoveries and proceed with these kinds of projects is truly shocking. After all, wasn't it Jesus who said, "If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses" (Matt 6:14-15)? And isn't it in the book of Hebrews that we read, "See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled" (Heb 12:15)? And isn't Paul who wrote twice that we are, among other things, to be "forgiving one another" (Eph 4:32; Col 3:13)? So to have this secular intelligentsia coming out in favor of genuine Christian values is just amazing to me.

Right, but amazing.

So ... isn't someone going to protest or something?