Forgiveness is God’s command. ~ Martin Luther

I grew up in an oppressive religious environment, as I know many of you did. I can think of stronger words. But “oppressive” will do for now.

One of my church’s most prominent teachings painted an image of God as a fierce and vengeful old white man. If you didn’t do as he said (really, what the church said he said), you were headed for hell and eternal damnation.

Sound familiar?

Spirit

Forgiveness

You have undoubtedly heard much about forgiveness, especially if you travel in spiritual circles. But that is misleading and even unhealthy. It often comes because you are operating from your ego-mind level.

The perception there even exists something called “sin” is misleading and unhealthy. We all know what perception is. As A Course in Miracles says (and as we have often repeated), “Perception is a mirror, not a fact.”

If, as A Course in Miracles also says, you are as God created you, then you are perfect and sinless because you were created in the image and likeness of God.

Sin and Ego

So where does this idea of sin come from? Your ego, or lower, mind. It’s that simple.

Obviously, that means you are disconnected from your true, or higher, self — from God.

It is never “sin” you need to forgive in anyone. Forgiveness would never be needed unless you had not judged (yourself and others) to begin with.

The person you most need to forgive is yourself. Begin there, and all the rest will flow easily and effortlessly.

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This short, inspiring film, Silent Night, stars Kevin Sorbo. It clearly illustrates the beauty and power of forgiveness and reconciliation.