Offering Forgiveness
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Matthew 6:12
Did You Know?
An item in the May 2, 1985, Kansas City Times describes the attempt by some fans of O. Henry, the short-story writer, to get a pardon for their hero, who was accused in 1898 of embezzling $784.08 from the bank where he was employed. The question was raised, “Can you give a pardon to a dead man?”
Back in 1830 George Wilson was convicted of robbing the U.S. Mail and was sentenced to be hanged. President Andrew Jackson issued a pardon for Wilson, but the convict refused to accept it. The matter went to Chief Justice Marshall, who concluded that Wilson would have to be executed. “A pardon is a slip of paper,” wrote Marshall, “the value of which is determined by the acceptance of the person to be pardoned. If it is refused, it is no pardon. George Wilson must be hanged.”
The court stated: “A pardon is a deed, to the validity of which delivery is essential, and delivery is not complete without acceptance. It may then be rejected by the person to whom it is tendered; and if it is rejected, we have discovered no power in this court to force it upon him.”
A pardon is a form of forgiveness for a crime or cancellation (in whole or part) of the penalty associated with it. Sometimes forgiveness focuses more on letting go of resentment, indignation, or anger. Jesus spoke of forgiving a brother who sins against you. “If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him” (Luke 17:3). In fact, Christ says, “And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him” (v. 4).
George Wilson was offered forgiveness but refused to accept it. Christ has offered forgiveness and pardon for our sins. Not only would it be wise to accept this gracious offer but also to have this attitude toward others as well. How much better it is to offer it to people who are alive and can accept the pardon.
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