Selfish Forgiveness

[276 words] Scientific findings have recently confirmed what we Christians have known all along. An unforgiving, grudge-holding spirit is not in our best interest. According to a report heralded by Newsweek, more than 1,200 published studies have now been conducted on the subject and the results are both consistent and conclusive: “…increased blood pressure and hormonal changes – linked to cardiovascular disease, immune suppression and, possibly, impaired neurological function and memory” are the “specific physiologic consequences” of unforgiveness. One researcher, Everett Worthington, uses language even I can understand: “It happens down the line, but every time you feel unforgiveness, you are more likely to develop a health problem.” Dr. Dean Ornish goes even further. “In a way,” he says, “the most selfish thing you can do for yourself is to forgive other people.” It seems the Bible has been right all along: “Blessed are the merciful…” (Matthew 5:7). “And be…