Greetings friends, this is Pastor Don from St. John’s UCC. The death this past week of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the great leader in South Africa, who suffered so much to help the world become more aware of the evils of hatred and prejudice, has given me pause this morning.
Deaths like that of the Archbishop and moments like this one where we come to the end of another year, ought to move us to reflect on the big underlying principles that guide our own lives. For the Archbishop, life wasn’t only about calling attention to the injustices and violence against his people, it was, perhaps more importantly, about learning the art of forgiveness. It was about letting go of the need to be right and about healing rather than retaliation or punishment.
We need to remember that forgiveness and reconciliation are the foundation of a healthy democracy and of a healthy YOU! Why have we, who follow Jesus, allowed ourselves to be convinced that retribution for wrongs done will heal us? Martin Luther King, Jr. had it right when he said: “The old law of an eye for an eye leaves everybody blind.”
LET’S PRAY: Gracious God, you have been an extravagant lover, forgiving the worst in us without hesitation. Teach us to truly follow you, I pray. Amen
