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| Gospel of Mark (14th century) |
Her written statement, which was recently included in a clemency petititon that was sent to Governor Corbett and the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons, explains the following:
I was angry and resentful towards Mr. Williams
for many years… I knew I had to find a way to
heal and live a peaceful and happy life. I realized that the only way I could do that was to forgive
Terry Williams for what he did.
She continues: Several years ago, after much prayer and self-reflection, I
found the strength and courage to forgive Terry Williams. I do not wish to see Terry Williams
executed. His execution would go against my Christian faith and
my belief system.
Because many professed Christians might outright disagree with Norwood's decision and faith statement,
it seems important to review these Gospel quotes about forgiveness: So if you are offering your gift at the
altar and there remember
that your brother has something against you, leave
your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then
come and offer your gift.
(Matthew 5:23-24) And when you stand praying, if you
hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that
your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.
(Mark 11:25) Do not judge, and you will not be
judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. (Luke
6:37) And with that he breathed on them and said,
"Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his
sins, they are forgiven, if you do not forgive
them, they are not forgiven." (John 20:22-23)
The Gospels are not always completely in sync with one another.
However, these four Gospel messages echo one powerful truth – that radical forgiveness is an essential component of Christianity.
Resources
http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/09/06/13711346-widow-asks-pennsylvania-governor-not-to-execute-husbands-killer?lite
http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/i/MSNBC/Sections/NEWS/A_FOR%20EDIT/18-NorwoodM_1-17-12.pdf
http://encouragingbiblequotes.com/versesforgivea.html
Copyright September 8, 2012 by Linda Van Slyke All Rights Reserved
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