We are forgiven

 We Are Forgiven

A Reflection on 1 John 1:9, Colossians 1:13-14, and Psalm 103:12

We are forgiven—not a partial, hesitant release,

But a full and final pardon, a never‑ending peace.

The slate is wiped, the debt is paid, the record has been cleared.

The judgment that we once deserved no longer is to be feared.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

We are forgiven—not because we cleaned our hands,

But because the blood of Jesus meets the law's demands.

While we were still sinners, still rebels, still at war,

Christ died for us, and opened heaven's door.

The enemy may whisper memories of our past,

But the cross has spoken once for all; the verdict stands at last:

“No condemnation!” Let the accuser hold his peace.

For everyone in Christ has found a full release.

He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. (Colossians 1:13-14)

So let us walk in freedom, not dragging chains of guilt.

The very blood that cleansed us was for our forgiveness spilt.

As far as the east is from the west, our sins have been removed.

We are forgiven, reconciled, and by the Father loved.

We are forgiven—let the whole earth sing!

Let every heart receive the grace that mercy brings.

Not by our works, but by His wounds, we stand completely whole.

We are forgiven—this is the Gospel of our soul.

As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. (Psalm 103:12)

Amen.