Saint Philip’s Episcopal Church

Spiritual Minute – Forgiveness

Paul Utgoff – March 25, 2007

Last week, the Gospel lesson of the prodigal son held new meaning for me.  My own daughter left home last July, too young, ill prepared, and with little prospect.  When she returned home last December, my wife Karen and I were immensely relieved and encouraged.  Adults are forward-looking, ready to forgive, in search of progress, and happy to celebrate someone else’s important step forward.  This is especially so for parents with their children.

Last week, while reliving the Gospel lesson [ of the prodigal son ], right away I felt that I knew God a little bit better.  God forgives us, most graciously when we can acknowledge to God an important step forward in our growth and person.  A good parent has to (and wants to) forgive the child in such a case, and God has to (and wants to) forgive us too.  Otherwise, there is no chance for progress, nor is there a path for growth, given our imperfect nature.  When we take a step for the better, God is relieved and encouraged, and He celebrates our growth.

When we forgive, we follow Jesus, and thereby worship Him.  May we walk ever closer with Christ.

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