The exponential power of forgiveness
Who would have thought that a vicious, horrific crime that would stun America would ever visit the peaceful community of Amish in Pennsylvania? And how can many modern folks begin to understand the immediate and total forgiveness they offered to the murderer, these people who seldom speak to the public, except to say ‘God is in charge and we forgive’?
That story hit the media as fast as they said it, and it’s stunning in its power. So is the charity they offered to the wife of the killer and her children, so complete is their faith to the Gospel and their commitment to live it.
But it continues.
The wife of a gunman who killed five girls and injured five others at an Amish school released a statement thanking the Amish and others in the Lancaster County community for their “forgiveness, grace and mercy.”
In the letter, released by a family spokesman and addressed to Amish friends, neighbors and the local community, Marie Roberts says she and her three young children have been overwhelmed by the community support since the Oct. 2 shootings.
“Your love for our family has helped to provide the healing we so desperately need,” she wrote. “Gifts you’ve given have touched our hearts in a way no words can describe. … Your compassion has reached beyond our family, beyond our community, and is changing our world, and for this we sincerely thank you.”
We all do. For the powerful witness that love is stronger than death.
