Out_of_the_Devil_39_s_Cauldron
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To My Dad<br />
No doubt, my dad and I were never able to establish <strong>the</strong> son and fa<strong>the</strong>r relationship that should have<br />
been. But I have forgiven my dad. Healing could never have taken place in my life without<br />
forgiveness.<br />
I thank God for changing my heart and bringing His healing balm to <strong>the</strong> broken pieces <strong>of</strong> my<br />
life. In a time when even thinking <strong>of</strong> those who hurt me would literally take my breath away, I<br />
discovered <strong>the</strong> unconditional love <strong>of</strong> God which surpasses all pain and understanding. He taught me<br />
<strong>the</strong> true meaning <strong>of</strong> forgiveness.<br />
Forgiveness is a choice. When I look at how Christ forgave those who hurt Him while hanging<br />
on <strong>the</strong> cross, it melts my heart. So I chose to forgive. I realize today that I love my dad. Good or bad,<br />
he was still my fa<strong>the</strong>r. I wonder, if he were still alive, how things would have been different. Perhaps<br />
I will see my dad again. Although he was not saved, I do not know if in his last breaths he cried out<br />
for God’s forgiveness. The criminal on <strong>the</strong> cross next to Jesus found Paradise through his last-minute<br />
repentance.<br />
I know this: I was a blasphemer and a mocker and somehow Jesus stretched out His hand to<br />
me. So one day I will know if God in His everlasting mercy stretched out His love to my fa<strong>the</strong>r. “For<br />
His ways are higher than our ways.” Praise be to God.<br />
I love you, Dad, and I miss you. Thank You, Lord, for depositing in me one <strong>of</strong> your greatest<br />
gifts—<strong>the</strong> gift <strong>of</strong> forgiveness.<br />
—John