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Theme Verse: “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” — Ephesians 4:32

One of the most Christlike things an ambassador can do is forgive. In a world that celebrates grudges, glorifies revenge, and justifies bitterness, forgiveness stands out as a radical act of grace. Ephesians 4:32 reminds us of the standard: “forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” That’s not conditional forgiveness based on the offender’s apology—it’s the kind of forgiveness that flows from being forgiven ourselves.

As Christ’s ambassadors, we are not only called to proclaim reconciliation—we are called to live it. Nothing distorts our message more than harboring bitterness while preaching grace. When people see unforgiveness in the Church, they hear the gospel as a theory, not a transformation. But when they see a believer extend mercy to someone who doesn’t deserve it, they see a glimpse of Calvary.

Forgiveness doesn’t mean pretending the offense didn’t hurt. It doesn’t mean ignoring injustice or denying the pain. It means releasing the right to retaliate and entrusting the wound to God. It is a choice, not a feeling. And it is often one of the hardest—and most freeing—choices you’ll ever make. Forgiveness may not change the other person, but it always changes you. It sets you free to love again, serve again, and represent Christ without hypocrisy.

Jesus modeled this on the cross when He prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34). He didn’t wait until they repented—He extended grace in the moment of their cruelty. If we’re going to be faithful ambassadors, we must follow His example. Whether it’s a small slight or a deep betrayal, the way we forgive speaks volumes about the One we follow.

So today, ask God to search your heart. Is there anyone you need to release? Anyone you need to love instead of resent? As His representative, extend the same forgiveness you’ve received. It may be the clearest gospel message someone ever hears.