Forgiveness is one of the most powerful demonstrations of the Gospel. Throughout history, countless individuals have chosen mercy over revenge, breaking cycles of bitterness and conflict.
One such example is found in the life of Corrie ten Boom, a survivor of the Holocaust. After the war, she encountered one of the guards from the concentration camp where her family had suffered. The man, now a Christian, extended his hand and asked for forgiveness. In that moment, she had to choose between holding onto the pain of the past or extending the very grace that Christ had given her. She chose forgiveness.
This kind of mercy is not always immediate or easy. It is a process, one that requires dependence on God. However, when forgiveness is extended, it has the power to heal not only the recipient but also the one who offers it.
The story of Joseph reflects this same truth. Though his brothers betrayed him, his decision to forgive restored their family and positioned him to be used by God for a greater purpose.
Jesus calls His followers to live with this same heart—one that is willing to let go of past wrongs in order to embrace the peace and freedom found in Him.