The F Word “ForGRIEVEness”
By Pete Watts
“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”Jesus answered, “I tell you, not just seven times, but seventy-seven times!…” ~Matthew 18:21-22 (NIV)
When I went through the process of reconciliation with my own father the only way I could heal from those family wounds was through this process I call “ForGRIEVEness.” It is the act of forgiving and grieving at the same time. Forgiveness is a process of continually walking in a state of mercy and humility. You have been asked to forgive more times than you would want. You feel as though you are being trampled on and taken advantage of each time you are called to forgive those who have hurt or abandoned you.
ForGRIEVEness is the process of letting go of your ill-will toward another who doesn’t have the capacity to say I’m sorry for one reason or another. When you participate in the act of forgiveness you have the power to restore the humanity of the person who has wronged you. In this last journal reflection, be creative. Write a song, prayer, poem, or draw an artistic piece. Use the last space in this journal to reflect a life made whole because you no longer have the yoke of unforgiveness around your neck.
These devotionals are ways in which I teach spiritual formation and help pastors, leaders, and congregations become contemplative activists. If you would like to take one of my classes on Centered Living check out our website at
https://www.rewireteam.org/missional-formation-workshops
Remember that forgiveness is more for you than it is for the other person.
Monday –
Read Matthew 18:21.
Tuesday –
Reflect.
Wednesday –
wRite a journal entry that reflects your week.
Thursday –
pRay using the prayer of Examen (Appendix).
Friday –
Reach: Write a song, prayer, poem, or draw an artistic piece that represents freedom and forgiveness.
Saturday –
Rest.
Centered Living
Many of us long to set aside time to listen to God and be in His presence. Centered living introduces spiritual disciplines that bring people into the presence of God. These disciplines are not a legalistic set of rules, but rather practices that, through grace, tap into the healing and transforming love of God. As a community, we will explore and experience different disciplines, including meditation, silence, fasting, and solitude. Through the process, we will experience the reality that these disciplines are meant to heal the heart, not burden the soul.
Is your congregation experiencing
Liminal Space right now?
