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If the Lord chooses to make nothing of our transgressions…

“If the Lord chooses to make nothing of our transgressions, then they are nothing. Or whatever reality they have is trivial and conditional beside the exquisite primary fact of existence. Of course the Lord would wipe them away, just as I wipe dirt from your face, or tears. After all, why should…” quote by Marilynne Robinson
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““If the Lord chooses to make nothing of our transgressions, then they are nothing. Or whatever reality they have is trivial and conditional beside the exquisite primary fact of existence. Of course the Lord would wipe them away, just as I wipe dirt from your face, or tears. After all, why should the Lord bother much over these snitches that are no part of His Creation? Well, there are a good many reasons why He should. We human beings do real harm. History could make a stone weep.””

Marilynne Robinson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote argues that divine forgiveness renders human sins insignificant, yet humanity still bears responsibility for causing real harm.

In simple terms: Divine forgiveness makes sins trivial, but we must still act responsibly.

Key Takeaway

Recognize responsibility despite divine grace.

Themes

theity responsibility human nature

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • social justice
  • environmental stewardship

Key Concepts

theology existentialism moral accountability

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance belief in forgiveness with personal accountability?
  • What actions reflect true responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Divine forgiveness does not excuse harmful actions.

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