Forgiveness

Sermon Notes: April 23 & 26 - Forgiveness– Matthew 18:21-35

One of the most challenging issues for Christians is the topic of forgiveness. People want to know the hows, whys, and parameters around forgiveness. Even Saint Peter struggled with this issue (Matthew 18:21-35). Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive, even offering seven times. Jesus replied, “Seventy times seven.” Meaning a large or perfect number, or also more than we are willing to forgive. Peter wanted to count, rather than forgive.

In a divided world, we may struggle with forgiving others. Yet, I have discovered that forgiveness is one of the best gifts which we can give ourselves. Forgiveness is defined as stopping feeling anger or resentment toward someone for a mistake, slight or offense. It is freeing for us when we move forward to forgive. Let’s face it, in most situations, lack of forgiveness only ends up harming us in the end. It can often be a hard journey to forgive, but with Jesus’ help we can undertake a journey of peace and reconciliation.

Just a thought, as we attempt to navigate this divided world.

Rev. Sherri