I’ve been giving some thought lately to what happens after this coming election on Nov. 5. I am so eager for the narrative of a divided country to change but I’m anxious that we have become too conditioned to consider any alternative. Especially concerning is the talk of retribution for perceived wrong doings and the growing calls for turning the guardrails of democracy into “weapons.”
In yesterday’s story from Genesis, Joseph’s brothers fear that he will take revenge on them for selling him into slavery. Instead, Joseph responds with compassion. Joseph’s choice to forgive, rather than seek revenge, opens the door to reconciliation and healing within his family.
Forgiveness is difficult, especially when the wounds are deep. But as Desmond Tutu once said, “Without forgiveness, there’s no future.” Joseph’s willingness to forgive his brothers shows us that forgiveness is not just about letting go of anger—it’s about making room for God’s healing work. By choosing forgiveness, Joseph breaks the cycle of pain and creates the possibility for a new beginning, not only for himself but for his entire family.
In our own lives, we may carry burdens of resentment or hurt, but Joseph’s story reminds us that forgiveness is a key to freedom. It allows us to move forward, not weighed down by the past, but open to God’s transforming love. Forgiveness is not easy, but it is powerful. It creates space for reconciliation and invites God to heal what has been broken.
Today, reflect on where forgiveness might be needed in your life. Ask God for the courage to forgive and trust that through forgiveness, God can bring about healing and restoration, just as God did for Joseph and his family. Perhaps then, we might be able to close the chapter on this country-sized divide and be reminded of the gift of peace.
May God’s peace find you today. -Pastor Peter
Let’s pray… God of grace, grant us the courage to forgive as Joseph did, trusting your power to heal broken relationships and restore hope. Amen.