Printed from: https://archive.cmf.org.uk/doctors/devotion/?day=29&id=devotion&month=1
We love, because he first loved us. 1 John 4:19
The following story was published years ago -- where and when I quite forget. But I cut out the piece from the paper and kept it. The other day I opened a book and found the clipping. When I read it again, it moved me and challenged me as it must have done when I decided to keep the clipping. Now I pass it on for it has much to tell us all.
A Korean student was battered to death by eleven teenagers in an American city four years ago. The death penalty was invoked until the parents of the boy wrote these words to the District Attorney:
`Our family has met together and we have decided to
petition that the most generous treatment possible
with the laws of your government be given to those
who have committed this criminal action...In order
to give evidence of our sincere hope contained in
this petition, we have decided to save money to
start a fund to be used for the religious, educational,
vocational and social guidance of the boys when they
are released...We have dared to express our hope with
a spirit received from the Gospel of our Saviour
Jesus Christ who died for our sins.'
Help us, Lord, to forgive others as you have forgiven us.
Further reading: Mt 18:21-22. 1 Jn 4:19-21.
RRW
