Forgiving as We Are Forgiven

Have you thought lately about how good it is that we can experience forgiveness from God? I’m sure we’ve all been thankful at some point, but it’s amazing that God has offered us forgiveness of sins through Jesus. In Psalm 130, the psalmist expresses that feeling of gratitude this way:

If you, LORD, kept a record of sins,

Lord, who could stand?

But with you there is forgiveness,

so that we can, with reverence, serve you. (Psalm 130:3-4, NIV)

Indeed, who could stand if the Lord kept a record of our sins. We are so thankful for forgiveness.

What about the forgiveness that we extend to others? Are we as ready to be forgiving as we are eager to accept forgiveness? When Peter asked how many times you should forgive, Jesus’ answer was much more than we are usually willing to forgive. Jesus then told a story about someone who was forgiven much, who was unwilling to forgive the little that was owed to him. Aren’t we like that sometimes? We are thankful and grateful to receive forgiveness, but unwilling to express that same forgiveness to others.

As Christians how are we responding to those around us? Are we treating our brothers and sisters in Christ with love and compassion? Are we speaking words of encouragement? Are those who aren’t a part of the Christian community seeing our compassion and kindness?

I’m praying and hoping for a change in our hearts and our actions.

Brian

Scripture readings for next Sunday Psalm 130—How would you describe the phrase “full redemption” here?

Hebrews 9:11-22—What is the meaning of redemption in this passage?

Luke 2:25-38—What do you think Anna talked to people about after seeing Jesus?

Romans 3:21-26—How is redemption describe by Paul in this passage?