How to forgive?

[arunangelo]

God forgave us by compensating for the offenses we committed against Him (1John 2:2). He compensated for our offenses by sacrificing His life. Furthermore, by His act of forgiveness He bought us eternal life and healing to our spirit. True forgiveness, therefore, consists in compensating for the offenses that our offenders caused us; and bringing them healing by our prayers and acts of sacrifice. God did this for us because He loves us (John 3:16) and wants us to have His joy (John 15:11). Forgiveness is therefore the ultimate act of love. Jesus commands us to forgive (Luke 6:37) and love one another as He loves us (John 15:12). Many may feel that it is impossible for us forgive in such a fashion. However, if we have faith in Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins, then with His grace we can do it. Furthermore, if we love Him we will obey His command (John 14:15) to forgive (Luke 6:37).

 

[reindeer]

I was raped at age 4 (not a family member) by a family friend. I became a catholic at age
12. I left The curch as a teenager . I returned a year ago after a 45 year absence. Until my
return last year my life was wrecked daily by that event. I now have a confessor and
spiritual director. With his help this memory, no longer daily, has no emtional content.
I would consider that forgiveness given the circumstances.