When we drive en route to a destination, one-way streets can be along our route. Even though the traffic flows in only one direction, some one-way streets can be difficult to navigate.

That's the way it is, too, on our route in this life to the kingdom of God. Sometimes we encounter a one-way street that presents a challenge. It is the one-way street of unrequested forgiveness.

We all know that our willingness to forgive is critical for our Christian life and our relationship to God. We know what Jesus tells us in His sermon on the mount: "If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses" (Matthew 6:14-15).

When someone recognizes that he has mistreated us and sincerely asks for forgiveness, he makes it easier for us to forgive and have the damaged relationship restored. But that isn't a one-way street!

The one-way street of forgiveness occurs when we need to forgive even when the other person doesn't recognize what he has done. We are to be willing to forgive in such cases, too, although the full restoration of the damaged relationship will only be possible later once the other party recognizes his mistake and repents.

Taking such one-way streets helps us! It frees us from negative emotions like resentment and revenge. It puts us in a frame of mind that is preparatory to a restoration of the relationship in the future. And most of all we follow in the footsteps of our perfect example, Jesus Christ.

In the hours prior to His death Jesus Christ was abused terribly. Innocent of any wrongdoing, he was cursed, beaten, flogged and crucified. We are reminded of His suffering at this time of year. But hanging on the cross He said: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" (Luke 23:34).

When we were yet sinners, prior to recognizing our guilt, Jesus died for us. He took the challenging one-way street that later made our reconciliation with God possible.

With these thoughts I wish everyone a rewarding Sabbath!