READ: PSALM 51; MATTHEW 18:21-35; EPHESIANS 4:32

I witnessed my father and mother fighting at a very young age. As the years went by, I learned that my father was not only a gambler but was also unfaithful to my mother over and over again.

As I grew up, my hatred for my father grew. He was not sorry for his faults. He was self-centered and insensitive, which made me abhor him all the more, even though I was his favorite child. And though I was studying in a Christian school where forgiveness was being taught, I did not forgive my father for his transgressions. I did not find any valid reason to forgive him, because he did not even ask for forgiveness. I only forgave my father many years later when the Holy Spirit prompted me to forgive him.

Jesus was hurt and offended by the people who crucified Him, yet He forgave them despite experiencing humiliation, severe pain, and suffering on the cross. Because of Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection, if we’ve put our trust in Him, we can know that we have been forgiven completely. And the Holy Spirit empowers us to forgive those who have offended us and caused us pain, knowing that Jesus has forgiven us for the pain we cause Him and others.

Jesus loves us, and He wants us to forgive others because we have been forgiven. Further, He knows that forgiveness can help us move toward peace, joy, and better relationships. Jesus even forgave people who did not ask for forgiveness (Luke 23:34). He forgave and continues to forgive us in spite of knowing that we sin repeatedly. As we rest in His love for us, Jesus will lead us to forgive the way He has forgiven us. • Golda Dilema

• As Christians, we live our lives in a constant rhythm of repentance and forgiveness. And Jesus’s forgiveness will never run out! Consider taking a moment to thank Jesus for His amazing gift of forgiveness. And if any sins come to mind, you can always confess these as well.

• Is there someone you’re struggling to forgive right now? Consider taking some time to talk to Jesus about this. He invites you to share all your questions and struggles. He loves listening to you, and He is always eager to help you.

• Forgiving someone doesn’t mean you have to be in a close relationship with them. If you’re struggling to forgive someone who consistently makes you feel unsafe, who is a trusted adult you can talk to about setting good boundaries?

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34 (NIV)