Today’s Gospel Lesson – Forgive Always

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.

Forgive Always?

In today’s timely gospel reading St. Peter boldly asks how many times should we forgive someone who offends us.

This morning was one of those mornings when I felt like I just may not be able to forgive anymore.

As a mom, I oftentimes receive the brunt of hurtful words and or actions when there is frustration or disappointment felt by one of my children.

And the older they are, the more their actions hurt and the more I take these things to heart.

But, if you read today’s Gospel reading from Matthew 18:21-35, you will see that Jesus shares a parable highlighting why we need to forgive – even if it is over and over again.

It is simply because God forgives us – every time we offend – over and over again.

And he ends this storytelling us exactly how we will end up if we do not offer this same forgiveness to those who hurt us.

Not forgiving leads to deeper pain and slavery. We end up bound and separated from His precious love and life with him – all while trying to pay a debt we never can.

Actually holding back his hand from offering us freedom and peace. We actually stifle the Holy Spirit’s ability to help us forgive the offender and do the very thing God is asking us to do.

Forgive Always

I thank God that with every seemingly hopeless situation, with every hurt I endure, he meets me. Today he met me in his Word.

Letting me know that my human nature may be to want to give up and resign myself to what comes naturally – holding a grudge.

But, God wants more for me and for each one of us. He wants our true freedom to love those who hurt us and live in his peace with no strings attached.

To let the Holy Spirit live in, guide, and help us – even in the little trials we face.

And incidentally, living in that freedom, love, & peace began today with letting God help me offer my child, once again, forgiveness