Is it possible to forgive on behalf of someone else? Here is what I mean: My brother is estranged from our father. I would like to say to Dad, “On behalf of my brother, I want to offer you forgiveness.” Is this appropriate or not?
If your father has been unfair to you, then you can forgive him. If you have seen unjust behavior by your father toward your brother and this has upset you, you can forgive your father for the indirect pain he has caused you. You cannot forgive “on behalf of” your brother because that is his call, when he is ready. You certainly can talk with your brother about forgiveness, making sure he understands what it is and what it is not. See if he truly understands what forgiveness is, and then see if he is ready to forgive your father. Try to avoid pressuring him into forgiving. It is better if he is drawn to it and forgives from his own free will.
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