“... but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

Matthew 6:15

Ouch. These are harsh words of Jesus, because it’s really hard for me to forgive those who hurt me. Thankfully, I know Jesus’ death covers and removes all my sins, including the times I’m unable or unwilling to forgive people.

But I can’t ignore these harsh words. Why is my forgiveness of others so important to Jesus? Perhaps it’s because relationships are so important to Jesus. He died to restore my relationship to my heavenly Father. He wants me to go through the hard work of forgiving because all my relationships are important to him, too. And he gives me his grace, his Spirit, and his power to do that hard work.

Karen Kogler Palatine, IL

Jesus, help me value relationships as much as you do. Help me forgive others as you have forgiven me. Amen.

Reflect: Who do I need to forgive? Help me begin by wanting to build a desire to forgive.

Read: Luke 15:11-32 and Matthew 18:21-35