Understanding Biblical Justice and Forgiveness in Recovery
Justice and forgiveness in recovery show me that God’s justice is rooted in fairness, equity, and righteousness. Because God is good and just, Jesus placed justice at the heart of the Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors.”
A Question in Recovery
Recently, at the close of a large AA meeting, fifty people joined hands and recited the Lord’s Prayer. As I looked around, I wondered how many understood trespasses, or “debt,” as Matthew uses it.
Debt, Justice, and What Is Owed
Then Fr. Mike explained on the Hallow app that justice means giving someone what they are owed. Therefore, if justice exists, someone must pay the debt.
Making Amends to My Parents
For example, before my parents passed away, I made amends for the harm my alcoholism caused. I could not undo their worry, fear, or disappointment. However, I could acknowledge the debt, ask for forgiveness, and live differently. As a result, my living amends became the only payment I could offer: staying sober, growing, and no longer adding to their burden.
The Cost of Harm
Through that experience, I understood debt and forgiveness personally. Harm carries a cost. Someone suffers, someone carries the weight, and someone must make things right. Even so, my parents’ forgiveness showed me mercy and revealed how costly forgiveness can be. This is why justice and forgiveness in recovery require both truth and grace.
Justice and Forgiveness in Recovery Through the Lord’s Prayer
Therefore, the Lord’s Prayer feels different now. When I pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors,” I remember that I owe a debt I cannot pay. Jesus paid that debt for me. Still, God calls me to admit the harm I caused, make things right where I can, and forgive others with the mercy I received.
In the same way, recovery asks me to make amends, own my part, stop causing harm, and live differently. Through this practice, justice and forgiveness in recovery become a path toward mercy, healing, and spiritual growth.
Reflection: Where do you need to practice justice and forgiveness in recovery by owning your part, making amends, or extending mercy today?