I have been both awed and uplifted by the response of the Mother Emmanuel Church community in South Carolina. Their strongly professed attitudes of forgiveness are different and surprising and wonderfully refreshing.
In contrast, I awoke this morning to a radio interview with author Roxanne Gay. She stated that “some crimes are beyond forgiveness.” She also said that she did not believe it is our job to forgive. Well, as I recall, that is not what Jesus said (Matt. 18:21-22). She stated that she would not commit a similarly devastating deed. Does that take away the need for forgiveness, the mandate to forgive? I don’t think so.
While I am saddened by Ms. Gay’s attitude, as well as that of hatemongers in today’s world, I am comforted in knowing that I believe in a God Who does not stipulate which things He does and does not forgive. My respect and prayers go out to the Charleston community.
The Prisoner's Prayer Book 