Kikole Hati: Why Is It Hard to Forgive?

Dear Awesome and Children to Come,

Forgiveness is not just a moral choice; it is God’s action towards humanity. It is a deliberate decision to release resentment and extend mercy, just as Christ commanded Peter to forgive 490 times a day (Matthew 18:21). This shows that forgiveness is not about keeping count but about cultivating a heart of grace.

Today, Sunday, 16 March 2025, I had the privilege of praying with the students of Mbarara High School, my former school, during a deeply moving service. Rev. Judith Arinaitwe Ahumuza delivered a powerful sermon on the theme “Why Is It Hard to Forgive?” The message, drawn from Matthew 18:21-35 and Titus 3:1-7, challenged us to reflect on the difficulty of forgiveness and why it remains a struggle for many.

In the parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:23-35), we see the contrast between the mercy of the king and the harshness of the servant. Despite receiving forgiveness, the servant refused to extend the same to others. This reminds us that, as recipients of God’s mercy, we must also be willing to forgive. Forgiveness is divine—we cannot do it on our own. The apostles recognized this struggle and asked Jesus to increase their faith (Luke 17:3-5), showing that forgiveness requires divine strength.

Today’s service was especially meaningful to me. Being back in Mbarara brought back cherished memories—I spent five years at Mbarara High School, serving in the Scripture Union and organizing services like this one. Years later, I stood in St. James Cathedral Ruharo on my wedding day, the same church where my parents were married. This morning, as I listened to the sermon, I found myself reliving those moments, grateful for God’s faithfulness.

Interestingly, today’s scriptures echoed last Sunday’s message by the bishop on “The Need to Reflect God’s Mercy.” This is a reminder that mercy and forgiveness are inseparable. Forgiveness is not just required of us—it is possible. Christ enables us to forgive, just as He has forgiven us.

I hope today’s message has inspired you to reflect on the power of forgiveness. If we desire to be forgiven, we must also forgive.

Your loving father,
Tukundane Yonna

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