One of the distinguishing characteristics of the ‘blessed’ (already happy) is their mercy. This predilection for responding to human need in a way that leads to healing and forgiveness flows from their hunger and thirst to live rightly with God and neighbor (Matt. 5:6-7). For our greatest and most repeated need within our relationships is wholeness through forgiveness. More than civility or even kindness, our personal and societal relationships require that we seek the forgiveness of our debts (our sin) as we forgive our debtors (sins against us). Such is the way Jesus taught us to pray (Matt. 6:12, Lk. 11:4).
Knowing that the merciful are such because they have received mercy, let us pray for the church “A Prayer of Forgiveness,” penned by April Thomas and printed in Latisha Morrison’s “Be the Bridge” (121).
God, we thank you for your Word and everlasting love. Thank you for providing us a clear path to reconciliation, one that builds bridges, closes gaps, and showcases your plan for us all.
There is so much strife and conflict attempting to distract us from who you are, closing our minds and hardening our hearts against one another. We pray we are loosened from the chains of unforgiveness and that our hearts are softened toward one another so our journey forward together as your children will be victorious.
Help us to see your love in one another and strengthen our desire for community and oneness in you. Open our ears to listen to the stories of those around us so that we may better understand one another. Help us to release negative thoughts and ideas about others, even if there are past hurts, and to forgive.
Thank you for forgiving us and fiercely loving us even when we have chosen to turn our backs on you. It is only by your grace we are able to walk this path.
In your Son’s name, amen.