Story of Forgiveness
Matthew 18:4
Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No!” Jesus replied, “Seventy time Seven!” Matthew 18:21,22 NLT
No doubt in some way at sometime each of us has been hurt or wronged. Peter obviously had someone in mind when he asked Jesus the question. Jesus’ response of seventy times seven was to indicate that we can’t forgive enough times. Our forgiveness towards others is so important and vital toward our well being. We need to forgive because we’ve been forgiven by Jesus. His death on the cross was for the forgiveness of all sins you and I have done, and will do, which over a lifetime is way more than 490 times, just for the record. Hopefully, none of us is wronged by the same person in the same way more than 490 times but if we are… forgive.
Reflection
So, what does this mean to you? Write down in your own words why it is important for us to forgive. You may even want to write down a situation you need to forgive.
What does your prayer need to be today? Maybe you need to ask Jesus for forgiveness for something you’ve done. Maybe you need to ask Jesus for the strength to forgive admitting how hard it can be to forgive. Maybe you want to thank Jesus for a healing in your life that forgiveness has brought.
Going Deeper
For an extra challenge and additional family time: read the story of a king who forgives and a servant that doesn’t, Matthew 18:21-35. Discuss the importance of forgiving others. This also might be a great time to ask for forgiveness or discuss things in your family that we often have to forgive . Read v.34 again and talk about how unforgiveness imprisons us; it takes us captive, emotionally and mentally. Be open to share examples of how unforgiveness has had a hold in your life and then share examples of the healing power of forgiveness in your life.
