Todd White Watch Sermon: You have a Blank Canvas

Todd White Watch Sermon: You have a Blank 

October 21: Mend Hearts

"So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it." Colossians 3:12-14

Choosing to forgive is one of the most powerful expressions of love. It’s not just a feeling; it’s a deliberate decision that echoes the love Christ showed us. Imagine you’ve been deeply wronged by someone close to you—perhaps a friend spread a rumor that tarnished your reputation. The sting of betrayal is sharp, and your initial response might be to harbor resentment or seek revenge. However, when we forgive, we rise above the hurt and say, “I choose love over bitterness.” Forgiveness does not validate the wrongdoing; it liberates you from the weight of anger. It frees you from the toxic cycle of grudge- holding that can eat away at your peace. By forgiving, you choose to wear love like a garment, showcasing the grace that has been lavishly poured upon you. This is the essence of love—forgiving as freely as we have been forgiven. It binds together broken relationships, mends hearts, and reflects the very nature of God.

Remember, to forgive is to set a prisoner free, and often, you’ll find that the prisoner was you. Is there someone you need to forgive?