We are fools for Christ’s sake, ( I Corinthians 4:10 ESV)
Fools
In the eyes of the world, and maybe in the way we were brought up, being so very extremely forgiving is seen as foolish. We are bound to be embarrassed by our kindness, when the forgiven ends up repeating their offense. We are bound to be taken advantage of, because forgivers seem to reject due recompense. We are bound to be seen as naïve, weak, and like a doormat.
But we are only those things if Jesus Christ is.
He forgives not because He profits thereby, but because forgiveness is the core of His gospel. He forgives not because we have earned it, or are likely to remain daily faithful, but because forgiveness is the core of the gospel. He forgives not because it is weak, meek, or mild, but because HIS kind of forgiveness is the epitome of strength.
And we get to be that kind of fool. Forgiveness displays the gospel when we see the horrible offense, but choose to forgo recompense, displaying mercy like Christ’s. Forgiveness displays the gospel when we deserve justice, revenge, and fairness, displaying love like Christ’s. Forgiveness displays the gospel when we deserve surface victory, displaying kingship like Christ’s.
The world might see forgiveness as foolish, but we know better.