Forgiveness comes when we embrace the profound truths of reconciliation, redemption, and grace as revealed through the Cross. In the Bible, we find a powerful perspective on forgiveness that encourages us to let go of our old selves and fully embrace the transformative power of God's love and mercy.

Reconciliation: True forgiveness involves reconciliation, not only with others but also with God. In 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, it says, "All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them." Through Christ's sacrifice on the Cross, we have the opportunity to be reconciled with God, and this reconciliation enables us to extend forgiveness to others.

Redemption: Redemption is at the heart of forgiveness. In Ephesians 1:7, it proclaims, "In him, we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace." The Cross represents the ultimate act of redemption, where Christ paid the price for our sins. Through His sacrifice, we are redeemed and offered forgiveness. Just as Christ redeemed us, we are called to extend forgiveness to those who have wronged us.

Grace: Forgiveness is an outpouring of God's grace. Ephesians 2:8 reminds us, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God." Our forgiveness of others is an extension of the grace we have received from God. It is undeserved, freely given, and empowers us to release the burden of resentment and bitterness.

The Cross: The Cross symbolizes the ultimate act of love and forgiveness. Jesus, innocent and blameless, bore our sins on the Cross to grant us forgiveness. In Luke 23:34, as He hung on the Cross, Jesus prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Even in His agony, He exemplified forgiveness. The Cross serves as a powerful reminder of the forgiveness we are called to extend to others.

Letting Go of the Old Self: Without the Cross, we may hold onto our old selves, clinging to anger, resentment, and a sense of self-righteousness. The Cross challenges us to crucify our old selves, as Galatians 2:20 states, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." When we fully embrace the forgiveness made possible through the Cross, we let go of our old selves and allow Christ's love and forgiveness to transform us.

In summary, forgiveness is a divine gift made possible through reconciliation, redemption, and grace, all exemplified by the Cross. It calls us to release our old selves and embrace the transformative power of God's love. As we forgive others, we reflect the incredible forgiveness we have received through Christ, and we grow in our likeness to Him.