My beautiful Tewahedo Orthodox sister, I believe forgiveness is one of the hardest things we are called to do as Christians. It’s never easy—especially when we are mistreated, hated, or falsely accused. Yet our Lord, as He hung on the Cross in unimaginable agony, looked upon those who mocked Him and prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:34).
If Christ, in the midst of His suffering, could extend such mercy, how much more should we strive to forgive—even when it feels undeserved?
The truth is, life won’t always be fair. People may dislike us, misunderstand us, mistreat us, or even try to tear us down. But we were not placed in this world to be liked—we are here to serve. We are called to reflect the light of Christ, to love when it’s hard, and to forgive when it seems impossible.
As Christ instructs us: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
Our light shines brightest when we choose love over hate, grace over revenge, and faith over fear. Even in the hardest moments, we can trust that God sees our struggles, strengthens our hearts, and uses our faithfulness to draw others closer to Him.
When you choose to forgive, you are surrendering your pain to God—placing it in the hands of the One who sees all, knows all, and judges righteously. You are trusting Him to bring justice in His perfect timing. Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness; it is true strength. It doesn’t mean forgetting—it means choosing freedom over the chains of bitterness. Forgiveness is not just a response; it is the way of Christ.
So when you face trials, do not be discouraged. When others misunderstand or mistreat you, do not be shaken. Stand firm in Christ, knowing your reward is not in the fleeting opinions of this world, but in the eternal love of our Heavenly Father.
My beautiful sister, keep loving like our Lord. Keep forgiving—just as He has so graciously forgiven you.
For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
—Matthew 6:14-15—
Then Peter came to Him and said, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me? Am I to forgive him up to seven times?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I say to you, not until seven times, but until seventy times seven.
—Matthew 18:21-22—
Selam Seyoum
Tewahedo Orthodox Girl 