The paraplegic before Him —

Jesus forgave the surprise guest.

He came down for physical healing.

Forgiveness was not his request.

 

The immoral lass at Simon’s house —

Jesus forgave the poor soiled dove.

She washed his feet with tears and oil,

Hers but an expression of love.

 

The thief on the cross beside Him —

Jesus accompanied to Paradise.

The felon admitted his guilt, but

Forgiveness came ‘ere his vice.

 

We come as children so clueless.

In advance, God forgave from above.

Jesus healed to prove He’s Divine and

The purest expression of Love.

 

Jesus insists we forgive others.

Don’t wait for them to ask.

Their power over us will stay

Unless we perform this task.

 

So, like Jesus, take a risk, forgive those foes,

Be limitless at your best.

Choose to practice His example of pardon,

Cease resentment and enjoy sweet rest.

 

Joyce Smith Broyles is a retired High School Librarian and lives in Jennings, LA.