As followers of his Word, we cannot ignore the fact that justice also requires us to pay the price for our actions. This is to be clearly distinguished from forgiveness. This explains how Christians can forgive Karla Faye Tucker but still believe in the justice of her punishment. In the same way, Christians can forgive Bill Clinton and still demand that he be held accountable for the full legal consequences of his acts. In its pure form, law has no mercy.
Law demands a penalty.
But judgment can be seasoned with mercy. A kind heart seeks out ways to demonstrate mercy. Mercy is a quality that reflects the face of God. As we show mercy, the character of the Almighty Himself who is endlessly forgiving, infinitely kind and eternally merciful is revealed. In forgiving as Reverend Graham has done, Americans can let go of the burden of discomfort in their own hearts.