Issue link: http://denverseminary.uberflip.com/i/1189422
23 The birth narrative of Jesus opens with an impossible situation. Mary was with child while engaged to be formally married to Joseph. In her defense, Mary produces an unbeliev- able story of purity and pregnancy. Before Joseph's dream encounter with the angel who confirmed the miraculous conception, Joseph believed his bride was unfaithful, an act that was punishable by public shaming and the often, the inability to marry an honorable man. Joseph had to make a choice. His obedience to the law meant he could allow Mary to face the consequences of what he thought was adultery, but Joseph expressed a kind-hearted, well-meaning, and compassionate attitude towards Mary (Matthew 1:19). Joseph acted in a forgiving manner, allowing God's grace to be exercised above his own need for justice. Because of this, Mary was spared from the label of adulteress. Jesus was spared from the shame of being an illegitimate child in the society. Forgiveness was integral in the story of Jesus' conception, and throughout His ministry, Jesus admonished His followers to forgive. At His crucifixion, Jesus intentionally interceded for the people who were killing Him as He prayed for their forgiveness (Luke 23:34). In this season of giving, there is an opportunity to reflect on the gift of forgiveness as modeled at Jesus' conception, during His ministry, and at His crucifixion. By following Jesus' example, we too can give the gift of forgiveness to others and to our- selves. As seen in Joseph's initial response to Mary's pregnancy, forgiveness does not always mean reconciliation. Joseph did not want to expose Mary to shame neither did he wish to proceed with the betrothal. When forgiveness is extended, the main goal is not always reconciliation. Out of obedience to God and our desire to promote God's honor above our own, we will forgive. Finally, Jesus had compassion for those who caused Him the most significant physical pain and rejection of His ministry. Therefore, even when we experience the deepest physical and emotional pain, we can forgive through the power of the Holy Spirit. A forgiving heart is a Christlike heart, and forgiveness is freeing. Forgiveness allows the one who has been wronged to let go of anger, hatred, and the need for revenge. With such new freedom, one can truly accept and celebrate the gift of Jesus and the abundant grace and forgiveness God gives to all humanity. Jenniel Taylor-Samuel Current student, mdiv Forgiveness: the giFt thAt Keeps on giving "Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.' And they divided up his clothes by casting lots." – Luke 23:34 December 18