On one level, dealing with a public offense--at least one that falls short of a criminal act--can be a fairly straightforward matter. Someone like Imus issues a formal apology, and those whom he offended then say that they "accept" this apology. That happens a lot, and it is a perfectly reasonable public transaction.
But has Imus genuinely repented? And have the Rutgers team members really forgiven him? In each case I have my doubts.
Genuine repentance and heartfelt forgiveness are complex matters that go well beyond the formal exchange of "I apologize" and "We accept your apology." The Bible underscores the difficult nature of real repentance and forgiveness.
We human beings are sinners who have deeply offended our Maker. God, in turn, does not treat our rebellious ways lightly. The Christian message is that ultimately God had to send a Savior to do for us what we could not do for ourselves. The Son of God had to go to the Cross to settle the debt. And that very costly forgiveness requires much of us. Saying "I'm sorry" to God does not mean much unless we repentantly commit ourselves to live in obedience to God's will from here on.
I'm glad Imus apologized. And I am very impressed with the classy way the Rutgers team members responded to his apology. But as far as repentance and forgiveness go--well, I hope each of them are engaged in continuing conversations with God!
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