Also the father does not need to perform an audit of his enemy’s soul to forgive. Forgiving really means turning it over to God’s prescribed means, which in such a case is not to exercise one’s own vengeance but make room for the wrath of God.
Re: “Forgiving really means turning it over to God’s prescribed means, which in such a case is not to exercise one’s own vengeance but make room for the wrath of God.”
There IS no forgiveness possible unless the molester asks. The only thing this father and the family can do is release their hurt and anger to God, not hold on to it and become bitter.
God DOES NOT forgive us unless we repent, confess and ask for His forgiveness through His Son. He doesn’t ask us to do something He isn’t willing to do.