The Incredible Power of Forgiveness

There are a fair number of headlines I may remember for a day or two. A good story might stick for a week or even a month. But then there are the few news stories that stay with you. Of all the news I have seen, what I saw in early October of 2019 still sticks with me. If you are an American, there is a good chance you can recall the court case involving Bothem Jean, a man who was shot by an off-duty police officer named Amber Guyger. This murder came at a time when interracial crimes were topping the national news. However, this case was different. Amongst the elements that set it apart, how it ended is what has lived with me to this day. A brother of the victim, Brandt Jean, took the stand and gave a statement that left me speechless. Rather than writing out what Brandt said, I want to encourage you to watch and listen to him give his statement. Here is a link to a YouTube video from ABC News: Brandt Jean to Amber Guyger: ‘I forgive you’ - ABC News - YouTube

"Simply finding the strength to face the killer of a loved one is impressive. Having the strength to not only forgive, but to express love and well wishes is off the charts."

I have forgiven others and have been forgiven but never have witnessed the level of love and forgiveness given by one human being to another. Brandt asked after his statement if he could give Amber a hug. The judge granted the request which led to one of the most moving moments I have ever witnessed. Brandt Jean had every reason to feel angry, bitter, and defeated. The woman before him took the life of his brother. Simply finding the strength to face the killer of a loved one is impressive. Having the strength to not only forgive, but to express love and well wishes is off the charts. Of all the examples of forgiveness I have witnessed in my life, those words from Brandt Jean may resemble the love of Jesus more than any other. These words of encouragement from Ephesians embody the gesture of Brandt very well:

31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Ephesians 4:31-32

Regardless of how big the transgression may be, there is a God whose love is bigger and can give the strength to love and ultimately forgive.

If you are struggling to forgive someone in your life and love them through the hurt, they caused you, I hope Brandt inspires you to remember you can. Regardless of how big the transgression may be, there is a God whose love is bigger and can give the strength to love and ultimately forgive. That is where Brandt Jean not only looked for strength in those toughest of moments, but where he encouraged the woman that took so much from him to look. If you are struggling to forgive someone in your life, I hope this story inspires you to take the leap, and in doing so, make the world a better place.