Tuesday, February 9th, 2021

Something often referred to as “cancel culture” has invaded public discourse over the last several years, leading to people who say something others don’t like, make mistakes, or even purposefully sin to be, in effect, banished from society through the power of the internet. We are all allowed to disagree, and even choose not to pay attention to someone we feel has wronged us, but the Bible is clear on this point: forgiveness of others is a non-negotiable part of worship. Jesus said, “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” He was clear here, in effect saying “don’t come tell me how great I am, and how important I am to you, if you haven’t taken taken the steps in your life that I’ve called you to do!” Forgiveness is one of those key steps. Moreover, if we can’t even forgive someone who offends us online, how will we ever truly forgive someone who hurts us in real life? How will we forgive a family member’s betrayal? A coworker’s theft? A friend’s rejection? If we cannot practice forgiveness when we see things in the media we don’t like, Lord, help us when we are called to forgive something personal. Today, pray on who you need to forgive.

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” — Matthew 5:24 NIV