Dylann Roof recently opened fire and killed nine people while they studied the Bible at a historic South Carolina church. Roof, who was captured after 14 hours on the run, walked into the courtroom dressed in a black-and-white prison uniform and flanked by two guards in body armor. Family members of the victims filed in, appearing composed as they stared at the defendant. However, they offered tearful words of forgiveness to the 21-year-old man charged with murdering their loved ones. “May God have mercy on your soul,” said Felicia Sanders, whose 26-year-old son Tywanza was the youngest person to die in the tragedy.

Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!

Psalm 97:12

People have a self-centered nature. Yet only Jesus Christ can free you to please the Lord instead of yourself. He fills you with His powerful love which does not demand its own way. As a result, you can forgive others even when they have wronged you.

Intercede for Roof and the victims’ families. Thank God for the incredible power of the Holy Spirit to change hearts and lives. Pray that the people and leaders of this nation truly experience the freedom that is found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 16:21-28