Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Psalm 32:1
After institutionalized racism became a thing of the past in South Africa in 1990, the government set up the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, headed by Desmond Tutu. The commission was based on the novel idea of giving people the opportunity to confess their sins publicly and then forgiving them. Some people called for punishment for those who were guilty of countless atrocities against others, saying that justice demanded it. But Archbishop Tutu countered by saying that the nation needed healing, and healing could best be brought about by tempering justice with mercy. Wrongdoers would have to recount their sins publicly in order to receive forgiveness. After more than two years of testimony, South Africa had transformed itself from a oppressive regime ruled by a small minority into an open, fully democratic society, through nonviolent means. The wisdom of Archbishop Tutu's approach is now evident to all, and the value of confession for promoting national catharsis is indisputable.
~ Woody Berry
Let us pray
Lord, help us see the need for confession in our lives. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment