Seventh Day Baptist
Christian Education Council
PO BOX 1678
Janesville, WI 53547
—Luke 7:44-50
by: Jerry Johnson.
In my work as a chaplain in a military hospital, one of the most important areas I work in is the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-Step program. Each cycle, I have the opportunity to work with service members who are struggling with the whole question of forgiveness. Some cannot seem to forgive themselves; others find it hard to forgive those from their past who created the conditions for their addiction; others need someone to forgive them but only find guilt and shame. Encountering these people has softened me. I used to condemn and judge. Now I try hard to love much and share Jesus’ offer of forgiveness.