Nougat 28

Hello my dears

The long weekend is over, and some of us are back at work. I pray you well. Today’s Holy Nougat invites us to think about burdens of others.

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves in tender compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience— bearing with one another and forgiving each other, if anyone has a grievance against another. Just as the Lord pardoned you, so also you must pardon others. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfect harmony.” Colossians‬ ‭3:12-14‬ ‭TLV‬‬

Many of us have heard of Forbearance; but are not really aware of operating with it. Of course, some might have heard the term in legal circles, especially when a mortgage is to be foreclosed. I suspect we borrowed the term from the legal context (remember Christianity is an alternative way of life). As indicated in the nougat, Forbearance supports-upholds, forgives AND pardons.

We make ourselves available as points of support to others in need. Just like Joseph did with Mary after the angel confirmed that he should. Despite the divine intervention, it took guts to admit he was wrong and loads of faith to stand by Mary for a child that could be subject to ridicule if Joseph had remained adamant about divorce. Forbearance also involves going the extra mile for another in need as a reminder to them that they are not alone. Is there someone needing us in this way presently? Lord help us bear burdens in Your Love.

Forbearance is also about forgiveness. Just like Mary forgave Joseph for disbelief at the explanation about her pregnancy. She could have held it against him, and perhaps agreed as life was easier to be married while pregnant; but if she carried no resentment she was also reflecting Forbearance. I guess Forbearance is the opposite of my childhood practice of attempting to count the number of times I forgave; so I could get back to the business of judging, holding my grudge and maintaining my righteous indignation (albeit misplaced) for ‘wrongs’ committed against me.

Although Forbearance is about bearing each other’s burdens; it is also about letting go. Of the pain, the anger, the shame and perhaps even the guilt that accompanies the memories of past or present wrongs. It may require hearing the apology in our hearts when it wasn’t ever offered, for the sake of our own freedom and for God’s glory.

Lastly, I would say Forbearance is a process, a journey NOT a destination. We may need to practice it many times with one individual. And that’s okay – just think about how many times we have benefitted from Christ’s Forbearance; especially in His resurrection.

May we find the grace to uphold, endure, forgive and pardon as often as required. Lord help us, ‘tis only by Your mercy.

In Christ’s love and grace . . .