Wholly Forgiven

Wholly Forgiven

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Colossians 3:12-13

The Alday family had helped build the church they attended, and they were cornerstones of the community. Jimmy and Jerry were hardworking, God-fearing young men and two of the best Christian examples I’ve ever known. They never tolerated cursing or any kind of disrespect—especially toward women. God was very much a part of their lives in both the big and little things. They were always quick to credit God if something good happened.

The Aldays were distant cousins, and we spent summers together selling watermelons at the Farmer’s Market in Atlanta. They tutored me in how to trust God and be thankful for everything. They wanted me to grow up to be more than a good man; they wanted me to be a godly man.

When I was sixteen, my dad showed up at the door of my history class one day with horrific news. Jimmy and Jerry had been murdered, along with their brother Chester; their father, Ned; and Ned’s brother, Aubrey. Worse yet, Jerry’s wife, Mary, was missing.

The next day, I learned that Mary had been found dead in the woods. Two prison escapees were later found and convicted of the crime, but my world had already flipped upside down. For years, I carried a grudge in my heart as I ran from God. Over the next seven years, I became an atheist and didn’t pray once. My spiritual life was a dark abyss. The light had gone out in my heart, and all my relationships were self-centered.

But one day, Jesus revealed himself and his plans for me in a dream. All at once, I understood his forgiveness and was able to pray, “Lord, please forgive me for the hatred I have for the men who murdered my family and friends.” Instantly, the fire of heaven reignited my spirit, and I began to live fully again in body, mind, and spirit.

If unforgiveness has been a barrier in your life, pray that the Lord of forgiveness will once again shine his light in your heart.^a

TODAY’S RX

Broken people break. Forgiven people forgive. Forgive and be whole.

Jesus, help me to lay my burdens at your feet. I’ve shouldered them for too long, and they’ve kept me from having a heart that beats for you. Reignite my spirit today.