Our Heavenly Father sent Jesus to take away the sins of the world. His purpose was to provide redemption, salvation, and hope for eternal life. I cannot rid myself of sin; I deserve punishment and death. Jesus bore the punishment for my sins. God’s forgiveness is the way for my sins to be forgiven. He redeemed me and I’ve been given a clean heart and renewed spirit.

Just as God forgives me, I forgive those who sin against me so they can know God’s love. Luther states, in the explanation of the fifth petition of the Lord’s Prayer, that I am to “sincerely forgive and gladly do good to those who sin against” me (“Luther’s Small Catechism”). I show love by forgiving others for the wrongs they’ve done.