Scripture: Matthew 18:21-22
Welcome back to our Lenten Series blog! Last week, we explored the power of fasting and prayer, and I hope you’ve been encouraged to draw closer to God through these spiritual disciplines. If you’ve been fasting, let me take a moment to encourage you: You’re doing amazing. Fasting isn’t easy, but it’s so worth it. Every moment you spend in prayer, every hunger pang you offer to God, is drawing you closer to His heart. Keep going; He sees your faithfulness and will honor your sacrifice.
This week, we’re diving into one of the most challenging yet transformative aspects of our faith: Forgiveness. Forgiveness isn’t just a nice idea; it’s a command from Jesus. In Matthew 18:21-22, Peter asks Jesus, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus responds, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”
So, let’s jump into Week 3: Forgiveness and Reconciliation.
What Does the Bible Say About Forgiveness?
Forgiveness is a central theme in the Bible. Jesus teaches us to pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). He also warns that if we do not forgive others, God will not forgive us (Matthew 6:15).
Forgiveness is not just a suggestion; it’s a command. It’s about releasing the burden of anger and resentment and choosing to love as Christ loves us.
Why Is Forgiveness So Hard?
Forgiveness is difficult because it requires us to let go of our desire for justice or revenge. It feels unfair to forgive someone who has hurt us deeply. But forgiveness is not about excusing the wrong; it’s about freeing ourselves from the poison of bitterness.
As Corrie ten Boom, a Dutch Christian and Holocaust survivor who became known for her teachings on forgiveness and faith, once said, “Forgiveness is setting the prisoner free and then discovering the prisoner was you.”
Practical Steps for Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Here are some actionable steps to help you practice forgiveness this Lent:
- Acknowledge the Hurt: Be honest about how you’ve been hurt and how it has affected you.
- Pray for Strength: Ask God to help you forgive, even when it feels impossible.
- Choose to Forgive: Make a conscious decision to let go of resentment and release the person to God.
- Seek Reconciliation: If possible and safe, take steps to restore the relationship. This may involve a heartfelt conversation or simply letting go of grudges.
- Reflect on God’s Forgiveness: Remember how much God has forgiven you and let that inspire you to forgive others.
Joseph and His Brothers
The story of Joseph in Genesis 37-50 is a powerful example of forgiveness. After being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph could have sought revenge when he became powerful in Egypt. Instead, he forgave them, saying, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20). Joseph’s story reminds us that forgiveness is not about forgetting the past but trusting God to bring good out of even the most painful situations.
Here in our country Nigeria, ethnic, religious, and political tensions often lead to division, and forgiveness and reconciliation are urgently needed. As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers and agents of reconciliation in our communities. Matthew 5:9 says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Let’s strive to be those peacemakers, bringing healing and unity wherever we go.
Forgiveness is not a one-time event; it’s a process. There may be days when old wounds resurface, and you need to forgive all over again. That’s okay. God’s grace is sufficient for you, and His love will give you the strength to keep forgiving. Remember, forgiveness is not just for the other person; it’s for you. It’s about finding freedom and peace in Christ.
A Question to Reflect On
As we close today, I want to leave you with a question to reflect on: Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? What’s holding you back? Take a moment to sit with that question, and if you’re comfortable with it or feel led, share your thoughts in the comments or with a friend.
Let’s pray together:
Lord, help me to forgive as You have forgiven me. Heal my heart and give me the strength to let go of resentment. Amen.
Join Us for Wednesday Night Service
As we continue this Lenten journey, I want to once again invite you to join us for our Mid-Week Service at Emmanuel Chapel. Every Wednesday at 5:00 PM, we gather to worship and pray together as a community, lifting up our needs, our nation, and our world to God.
Until next week, may God’s peace and presence be with you.
Blessings.
