True forgiveness...

Father, your creation declares your greatness and lovingkindness, encouraging statements of pure truth in our daily walk... Nobody in this life truly forgives without expecting anything in return. Oh we can start with pure motives but under the surface, at a minimum, we expect reciprocal behavior from the one being "forgiven." So it's inevitably a negotiation for peace, I give, you give, and then we can make this relationship work.  But this is the great differentiator with Jesus and with you, O Lord, for you've taught us a new way, a better way, a proactive way to forgive. Paul wrote, "In Him (Jesus) we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace" (‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬) Forgiveness has its origins in sacrifice, and sacrifice is made perfect when combined with grace (free gift); quite simply and miraculously from mankind's prospective, you've chosen to forgive those who've committed to following in the footsteps of Jesus at the very time they were baptized in His name; forgiven forevermore… Thank you, Jesus, for showing us that you are the way, the truth, and the life; THE answer for those committed to seeking the truth in all things!