Moderator
Staff Member
Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Romans 12:17-18
Twenty-five years ago, Oshea Israel (who was sixteen at the time) killed Mary Johnson’s only son (who was twenty) when they butted heads at a party in north Minneapolis. While Israel’s case crept through the court system over the next couple of years, Johnson wanted to see him pay for what he’d done.
But, according to an article in the Winona Post, Johnson was a Christian and after reading a poem she came across in a book, and after much prayer, and after attending many worship services, the Holy Spirit did a work in her heart that she didn’t expect. Johnson and Israel were eventually reconciled, with Johnson offering him forgiveness. They went on to become neighbors, and began traveling together, sharing their story with inmates, at schools, and on television.
Today’s verse calls Christians to not repay anyone evil for evil, which is far easier said than done. But Johnson did it. Many others have as well. How about you? Are you at odds with somebody over an injustice they did to you or someone you love? Work through the process of forgiveness. Talk to a pastor or counselor. And seek reconciliation.
Twenty-five years ago, Oshea Israel (who was sixteen at the time) killed Mary Johnson’s only son (who was twenty) when they butted heads at a party in north Minneapolis. While Israel’s case crept through the court system over the next couple of years, Johnson wanted to see him pay for what he’d done.
But, according to an article in the Winona Post, Johnson was a Christian and after reading a poem she came across in a book, and after much prayer, and after attending many worship services, the Holy Spirit did a work in her heart that she didn’t expect. Johnson and Israel were eventually reconciled, with Johnson offering him forgiveness. They went on to become neighbors, and began traveling together, sharing their story with inmates, at schools, and on television.
Today’s verse calls Christians to not repay anyone evil for evil, which is far easier said than done. But Johnson did it. Many others have as well. How about you? Are you at odds with somebody over an injustice they did to you or someone you love? Work through the process of forgiveness. Talk to a pastor or counselor. And seek reconciliation.
