Bearing Wrongs Patiently
“When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him and the criminals there, one on his right, the other on his left. [Then Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, they know not what they do’]” (Luke 23:33-34).
In the course of life, we all encounter moments when we are hurt by someone else. To bear wrongs patiently is to step away from the situation, take a few deep breaths, pray the Our Father, and ask God for patience. Jesus did not lash out at the people who wronged him. He bore wrongs patiently as he granted them the benefit of the doubt, did not return evil for evil and extended forgiveness. Below are some suggestions to consider:
- Do not be bitter about wrongs done against you.
- Place your hope in God so that you can endure troubles.
- Pray that you will face difficult situations with a compassionate spirit.
- Be mindful of showing love and mercy to others, especially those who are most difficult to love.
Scripture
“Then Pilate said to him, ‘Do you not hear how many things they are testifying against you? But he did not answer him one word, so that the governor was greatly amazed” (Matthew 27:13-14).
“A large crowd of people followed Jesus, including many women who mourned and lamented him. Jesus turned to them and said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep instead for yourselves and for your children, for indeed, the days are coming when people will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed.’ At that time people will say to the mountains, ‘Fall upon us!’ and to the hills, ‘Cover us!’ for if these things are done when the wood is green what will happen when it is dry?” (Luke 23:27-31)
Bishop Robert Deeley
“’Bearing wrongs patiently’ is not about tolerating someone’s abusive behavior or remaining silent in the face of unjust suffering. Rather, bearing wrongs patiently still holds someone accountable for their behavior, but also understands that often change comes slowly and only God can determine the right time and path of conversion and reconciliation.”
