When The Distance Is Too Great

When the Distance Is Too Great

How do you forgive or seek forgiveness when the distance is too great?

Sometimes the distance is necessary: an estranged spouse or someone who seriously hurt or abused you. The distance may be permanent, such as a parent who has died. Or maybe the distance can’t be helped: those who’d never admit their wrongs or receive your admission of wrongdoing.

What do you do in these situations?

While the ideal scenario is for two parties to forgive each other, how they respond to you or even their presence shouldn’t stop you from asking for forgiveness or offering yours. The very act from your side of things can bring healing. Some people write a letter and never send it. Some people sit down and speak to an empty chair.

However you do it, don’t let a little distance keep you from the healing you desperately need.

You who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed . . . the dividing wall of hostility.

—Ephesians 2:13–14