...by definition the forgiveness of sins has a profound communal dimension; as sin is the means by which persons exclude themselves from community with and the community of God's people, so forgiveness marks their restoration to the community.These words made me pause and reflect about the idea of repentance and forgiveness. My predisposition only sees repentance unilaterally, God and me. But this dimension includes a communal side that a person is committing to cross back into community having alienated themselves. What if forgiveness was equally about community? That when we admit our self centered ideology our best means to draw close to God is by being radically intertwined in human relationships.
I don't know if this speaks to you, but I have been stewing over this concept for days. Any thoughts. Now it's your turn...
1 comment:
Only subscribing to the unilateral view of sin/forgiveness rejects the notion that we are called to higher relationships with people and Creation, not only God. Redemption requires me being right with God along with people and creation.
It makes sense to me that turning from sin should bring me back into community. But I often find it easier to keep my hang-ups secret between me and God. This does nothing for community with others or my relationship with God, if it is to be hidden between us.
This also brings another thought. How will my community respond to my repentance? It's refreshing to think that a people could join in my burden but push me out of it and break my selfishness. Are we truly empowered to offer that forgiveness?
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