Self-forgiveness

Lyle R. Young

He had committed a terrible wrong. In his dearest friend's darkest moments he had deserted him, in spite of having professed his loyalty to that same friend, cost what it may, only hours earlier. Yet, somehow, in spite of the bitter disappointment he must have felt within himself, he was able to recover and go forward. What an act of courage and humility—of pardon and grace!

As some might guess, the man was Peter, and the friend, Christ Jesus. The Gospel of Luke recounts that Peter, a close disciple of the Master, had avowed at the Passover supper that he would follow him, even if it led to death. Yet only a few hours later he declared vociferously that he didn't even know the man (see chap.22:31—62).

Forgiving oneself may be one of the most profoundly Christian actions one can ever take. And as Peter went on to illustrate, rich blessings for oneself and others can flow from that selfless act.

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