The Way of Forgiveness is a vital part of the Christian way. It has to do with how we relate to people and live in communities that are centred on the cross and overflow with generosity in our attitudes toward one another. Jesus says that one of the key markers of our discipleship will be seen in the way we ‘love one another’ and that love is evidenced in the way we bear with one another’s shortcomings, showing forgiveness and grace.
Every family or grouping of people such as a community or club has a culture; By ‘culture’ we mean simply ‘the way things are done around here.’ Jesus is establishing a new community, a ‘humanity 2.0′, and in these verses he gives us an insight into the kind of people he wants us to be. He first of all begins with a warning that reassures us evil will not go unpunished. God does not and will not turn a blind eye to anyone or anything that ’causes one of these little ones to sin,’. Anything that violates or corrupts people made in the image of God moves God’s heart. In the book of Hebrews it says “it is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” God is holy and just and to anyone who is a victim of abuse or injustice this is remarkably good news. Evil will not go unpunished.
But then he moves on to describe the kind of people and places he wants churches to be. Our family of origin, our first family, may play the primary role in shaping who we are in life, but it’s the Second Family of the church that is meant to have the lasting impact on our lives. How we deal with conflict is learnt based on our experiences growing up, but Jesus wants us to learn a new way of responding to conflict based on his life and example.
