It’s very hard to love someone while holding onto a grudge or resentment for something bad they may have done to you. Each time you see them, your mind instantly goes back to when they hurt you. God tells us we are to love everyone. Even those that have wronged us. This can be SO hard! 

Jesus gave the ultimate example of forgiveness. As he was dying on the cross for all our sins He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Can you even imagine being able to forgive someone that is hurting you that much? Jesus is truly the shining example of forgiveness. 

In Matthew 18:21-22 when Peter asked Jesus,” Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother and sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answers, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” He is saying that our forgiveness should be unlimited. Why? Because God has forgiven us. Forgiveness is at the heart of our faith in God and our love for each other. 

I admit that I can be sensitive to mean comments and judgment. Some people can brush off what others say to them easily.  Unfortunately that is not me. I sometimes sit with what someone says and it can truly hurt me. I sometimes get defensive and try to guard my heart. In these moments, I need to reflect on God’s love for me and remind myself to love and forgive others just as God loves and forgives me. We serve a forgiving God who continues to love us despite our imperfections and pours out His grace every day. May we all follow His lead and extend grace and forgiveness to someone today. 

Today: Is there someone you need to forgive? Pray and ask God to help you forgive them today.