Jesus did not ask for any kind of vengeance against the people who killed him on #GoodFriday. I've learned from the families of murder victims that the whole idea of forgiveness is about maintaining our own personal integrity and not allowing ourselves to be overcome with hatred.

There are a lot of deep dynamics here. When Jesus appeared after the Resurrection, his first words were words of peace even though the disciples had abandoned him. Jesus said, "Those who forgive will be forgiven." It's a dynamic of community and active, ongoing forgiveness.

Jesus also said, "Those whose sins you retain will be retained." Sandra Schneiders' insights on the Risen Jesus tell us that the Greek text here was misinterpreted. It wasn't about sin at all and should be translated as, "Those you hold fast will be held fast."

We see Jesus saying something similar when he talks about shepherding his sheep and that no one can snatch them out of his arms. The crux of the message is to forgive one another, then move on in community. Hold each other fast.

We can see this all in action in John 20. The Apostles were transformed when Jesus appeared after the Resurrection. They were afraid and cowering, then Jesus appeared in their midst and empowered them. They came out forgiven, loved, and unafraid.