"Though grace is shown to the wicked, they do not learn righteousness; even in a land of uprightness they go on doing evil and regard not the majesty of the LORD." -- Isaiah 26:10

Two men acting on their own initiative embezzled a Christian ministry for an amount totaling over $12,000. They were never prosecuted. They never went to jail. They never repaid the money.

They were forgiven.

This, for many of us, would be unthinkable and unacceptable. And, perhaps, rightfully so.

We can argue that such a lack of accountability breeds and perpetuates further irresponsibility and wrongdoing. Again, perhaps. It certainly seems a sound principle. It is possible that both men are still defrauding, stealing and damaging those who trust them.

On the other hand, what does extending grace to such individuals accomplish? What is the purpose of forgiving those who exploit forgiveness?

Two processes: First, they dig their own grave a little deeper until they ultimately dig so deep they cannot crawl out. For them, this is the true point of redemption. Second, there is dwelling in the most seared of consciences an element of softness which will respond to grace with repentance. This too, is redemptive.

Punishment has its place. Retribution its calling. Accountability its necessity. But in the Christian context, it is grace -- not an eye for an eye -- that is the most redemptive.

-- PDM

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