Forgiveness vs restoration.

  In response to last night's blog about forgiveness Peter made a very helpful observation.

"And one might consider that forgiveness is different from absolving from consequences. A sinner may be forgiven for robbing a liquor store, but still must suffer the consequences of that act, including perhaps jail time. Totally separate from forgiveness." Peter
   He's absolutely correct. People often confuse forgiveness and restoration. They are separate realities.  If a pastor embezzles money from a congregation that he/she is serving he/she may well be forgiven. On the other hand he/she may never be restored to office of pastor in that or any other congregation.
   Mr. Thompson, husband of a woman murdered at the Charleston church, recognized that by forgiving he, Mr. Thompson, gained freedom. Whether or not it does the perpetrator any good is beside the point and can only be determined by him. By giving forgiveness Mr. Thompson is giving himself a gift.

    Unlike last spring when it rained without ceasing, almost like the Biblical "40 days and 40 nights," this year is much drier. It is dry enough that now we hope for rain. A half inch received last night is very welcome. Crops are not suffering and spring weather allowed efficient and timely planting.  Memories from childhood are of wishing and waiting for rain. Now average annual rainfall, here at The Little House On The Prairie. is over 30% more than during my childhood. Another effect of climate change.

Takk for alt,

Al