Forgiving Idols

How often do we place ourselves in the role of worshiper without first being a forgiver? Why do we forgive? Why do we worship? Often the answer hovers dangerously close to being “to meet my needs.” Jesus said “first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:23-24). This teaching of Jesus gets its roots from the ancient Jews. There is a 10-day period between the Jewish New year and the Day of Atonement. This 10-day stretch of time was to be used by all Jews to seek reconciliation from one another, followed by a nation-wide fast.

The great fast on the Day of Atonement was not to be observed by any person who did not first seek forgiveness from his or her neighbor. Imagine for a moment how wonderful an observance this was, as a magnificent communal experience for all God’s people, when they spent 10 days reconciling all wrongs and bringing the entire nation to a place of peace with one another.

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Blessings,
Johnny