On the second day of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division’s (SSD) Midyear Meetings, Elder Audrey Andersson, vice president of the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventists, delivered a devotional message calling leaders to embrace forgiveness as both a divine gift and a spiritual responsibility.
Reflecting on the example of Christ, Andersson reminded attendees of Jesus’ words on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” She emphasized that forgiveness is not only for those who wrong us, but also for ourselves as we respond to personal failures and disappointments.
Drawing from Isaiah’s invitation to let the wicked forsake their ways, she reminded the delegates that God is always ready to pardon abundantly. “Repentance opens the door to forgiveness,” she said, adding that only through repentance can hearts truly begin to heal.
Andersson also challenged the leaders to reflect on the meaning of sacrifice in today’s fast-paced world. “We are often so busy,” she noted. “Have we become careless in our spiritual walk because of the busyness of our days? How many of us still take the time to sit at the feet of Jesus?”
She concluded by urging everyone to remain faithful in both personal and collective spiritual lives. “To forgive,” she said, “is to be free. In offering forgiveness, we release ourselves from burdens that weigh us down.”
Her message offered a moment of quiet introspection for delegates, encouraging them to lead with hearts anchored in grace, humility, and healing.