Forgiveness: An Opportunity Presents Itself

God hates figs?

I read on the news this morning that hate pastor Fred Phelps may be on his death bed. A friend posted on Facebook that people should go to his funeral with signs saying “we forgive you.” At first, it sounded strange to suggest that the world should show some mercy to Phelps, whose mockery of God has harmed the cause of Christianity, in my opinion. After all, this is the political activist leader of a church that has picketed funerals, celebrated the mourning of others and even prayed for people to die.

Still, we have to forgive. Scripture tells us that unless we forgive others, we are not forgiven. That’s the catch-22 of faith.

but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Matthew 6:15

Judging from some of the comments on the news stories this morning, the reaction to his death could make for interesting news. Christians can take this time to preach the true gospel and show some Grace. The world needs to see real Christianity in the media for a change.

It will be interesting to see whether they read from the King James version at his funeral. Read more about “Queen James” here.