Embracing Forgiveness

by Rev. Beth Head

Forgiveness feels wonderful. Forgiveness is work. It takes time, courage, and compassion.

Jesus continually taught forgiveness because he knew and understood that it doesn’t come easily. Sometimes we must forgive over and over… and over again.  

Lines of Connection. When we hold on to something we are unwilling to forgive, an actual “binding” feeling can happen in our body, in our soul, in our subconscious. This “binding” blocks the joyful energy of Spirit. When we are unforgiving, we begin to draw a line (an invisible connection) between us and who or what we can’t forgive. The more we relive the situation, the more we resent the person or situation, the more lines we draw between us. Every time we say, “I can forgive this, but I can’t forgive that,” the lines become more tangible.   

The key to breaking these lines and emotional ties is forgiveness. Remember, we don’t forgive for the sake of the other person. Our forgiveness doesn’t do anything for them. We forgive for US. 

Without forgiveness, we are restricting the flow of good into our lives. 
Without forgiveness, we are binding ourselves to what we don’t want.  

Here is a prayer practice that we can use to embrace forgiveness.  

First, relax. Breathe gently and easily. Spend a precious moment loving yourself. When that feels complete, only then go ahead and call to mind that situation or person that you have been holding on to in a negative way. Acknowledge with love any genuine feelings of reluctance to forgive.

Now, say aloud to yourself: For all that you have done that caused me pain, intentionally or unintentionally, through your actions or your words, I forgive you. I forgive you. I set you free. I set myself free from you and from the harm you did to me.

Now, holding that specific person or situation in mind, repeat these words: For all that you have done that caused me pain, intentionally or unintentionally, through your actions or your words, I forgive you. I forgive you. I set you free. I set myself free from you, and from the harm you did to me.

Pause and notice any resistance. Notice when your heart tries to harden or hold on to anger, fear or hatred.  

Again, turn your awareness to your breath and the centering phrase: I forgive you, I set us both free. This sets your deep intention to forgive.  

I forgive you, I set us both free.
I forgive you; I forgive you.

Letting your heart soften – let the war be over – set them free. Set yourself free.  

End your prayer with: “I set you free. I am free from you. I set us free. God bless you. Go in peace.” Amen.

Forgiveness is work that we need to do daily.
May you be set free as you become willing to embrace forgiveness.