by Sis. Marilou Manalili
Reading for the day: Colossians 3:12-14
It’s winter time, what should I wear? I’ll play it safe, an all-black outfit and a red scarf, Christmas is approaching anyway. Let me tell you a memory worth sharing: an invitation of forgiveness.
Have you been in the midst of throes of pain and grief? Or has the world ever shattered before your eyes, leaving an uncertain future ahead? Have you been deeply hurt by someone who betrayed your trust?
That was my reality. And I’ve lived in resentment and hatred because of unfortunate life events. I hit rock bottom and I lost sight of forgiveness to people and most of all, to myself. I had a grievous wound, and a hardened heart subdued my being. I held on to the pain and I wished a life of destruction towards the person who caused the events that led to my suffering.
I took on every chance that could bring me any bit of joy, but the pain never waned, and I was in a never ending whirlwind of emotions. I had nowhere to go. I have given up and embraced defeat.
Exhausted, I finally ended my trotting game with a simple YES to a friend’s invitation to attend their Church Anniversary. I remember she was almost annoying but persistent – that’s Sis Lerie, my best friend from the local church of Red Deer. I took a chance with the Church not only because she is a close friend but because of her determination to bring me long lasting relief from all of my afflictions.
As I first stepped into the venue, to my surprise, I had the same outfit as them – black ensembles with red scarf. But I was welcomed with beautiful smiles and warm greetings, so I did not really think it was awkward to be there. There was something with the people and the place. And the sparkling decorations of Christmas harmonized with the gleaming welcoming spirits of the brothers and sisters.
That simple invitation, the beautiful people, the resounding praises, singing, and the message brought by Presbyter Isabel Obsanga, which was personally hard-hitting, made a strong impression on me.
After accepting Jesus as my Lord and Saviour, I went through a radical transformation. And whenever I glance at old photos, particularly the altar call, I am brought back to the time I experienced God’s faithfulness for the forgiveness of my sins. That was God’s grace and mercy unwrapped before my eyes.
When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 NIV
How can a person like me who denounced and only wished for someone’s tragedy be forgiven? What a great promise we have through the name of Jesus! He is the Light of the world, the Prince of Peace, and eternal hope in the seam of darkness we were chained upon.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 NIV
God has been so merciful and forgiving, and His benevolence spurred my readiness to seek forgiveness, and unfold forgiveness as well to others. And that set me free!
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Colossians 3:13 NIV
So beloved, let this Christmas be a season to forgive, let love, faith, and hope be always in our path as we serve the Lord. And always have the spirit of evangelism even in the ministry of caroling this season.
Let this Christmas be a season to forgive, let love, faith, and hope be always in our path as we serve the Lord.
Never stop giving out invitations for our services. Maybe this is God’s plan for you to be used as an instrument to come across a soul in need of healing and forgiveness.
“This too shall pass” — Forgive and let love and peace live this Christmas
Reflection: Do you remember how you were invited to the Church? How do you use that experience in winning souls for the Lord?
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