Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” -Matthew 18:21-22 (NIV)
I grew up with three brothers. As rambunctious boys, our childish antics often tested the patience of our loving parents. On occasion, one of us would do something that required correction from our parents. My childish apologies were usually sincere. Sometimes there were tears involved, but my parents made it clear that I was loved and forgiven. It was almost as if the infraction had never happened.
The Bible contains many stories of repentance and forgiveness, but perhaps the story of forgiveness that is most clear to me is the parable of the prodigal son. The young man demanded his inheritance, left home for a life of sinfulness, lost everything, and then came back home in shame. He didn’t deserve forgiveness, but his father welcomed him back with open arms.
We all make mistakes, but there is power in forgiveness. When we forgive, we are freed from bitterness and anger; when we are forgiven, we are freed from guilt and shame. Forgiveness brings us into a closer relationship with God, the Father. When we come to God in repentance and ask for another chance, God always forgives us.
Prayer: Merciful God, thank you for forgiving us again and again. Help us to learn from your example so that we can more readily forgive others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Thought for the day: God offers me a life of second chances.
Doug Wingert (Arizona, USA)
