HIGH AND LIFTED UP

When we repent of our sins, turn from our ways, and confess, we are forgiven. That's pretty much basic scriptural truth reflected in numerous passages.

DE Leonard Little of the St. Louis Rams ran a stop light after celebrating his birthday with teammates. His SUV hit and killed an area woman. Only recently, nine years or so after the incident, has he been able to talk openly about it. Last week he told students his story. A story of tragedy and forgiveness.

He was sentenced to 90 days in jail and probation. He, along with many others, thought he got off easy. He grieved, he attempted suicide, he suffered, and he forgave.

Not himself. He forgave the killer of his younger brother. "If I ever expect forgiveness, how could I not forgive the killer of my brother? " he told his school-age audience.

Forgiveness is difficult. The family that was ruined by Little's actions have not publicly forgiven him yet. While he wishes that would happen, it's out of his control. What a tough lesson for him to learn.

Forgiveness literally means to lift up, to take away. When God forgives, the stain of guilt and sin are taken away.(Lev 16:30) Little had it right. If he wants forgiveness, then he has to be able to forgive.

His testimony proves he has the second part down. And that's more difficult than the first part.