The other night I finally watched a movie that I had wanted to see since it first showcased – “The Shack.”  The storyline focused on “forgiveness” in an extremely difficult situation. It was a beautiful story that showed us how we unknowingly judge people without knowing their background or what shaped them.  It’s quite easy to judge someone you don’t know. But the decision for God to judge or condemn is more gut wrenching and heartbreaking then we realize. We are all His children, whom He loves deeply. To be faced with these decisions everyday, is not within human capacity – to have to choose between your own children on who is condemned to hell or gets eternal life.   It is not possible. It’s not a decision we could make and instead most parents would say “take me, take my life and spare my children.” That is exactly what God has done.

With so much evil perpetuating itself in society, we need to build up the antidote, which is even more powerful; Love. Love perpetuates more love, kindness, forgiveness, joy, happiness and so forth.  It wipes out hurt, anger and revenge. Yes, we need to carefully assess people and discern their character, intentions and be wary of those who lie or try to lead us into situations that may be harmful to us.  Still, ultimately, their judgment is for God and God alone.

Love and respect each other out of the sheer dignity of being one of God’s children.  

Lord Have Mercy,

Paula