Keep Forgiving Each Other

Jesus Calls for Justice and Mercy

The Unforgiving Servant

Luke 17:1-4 Amplified Bible

Instructions

17 Jesus said to His disciples, “Stumbling blocks [temptations and traps set to lure one to sin] are sure to come, but woe (judgment is coming) to him through whom they come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone [as large as one turned by a donkey] were hung around his neck and he were hurled into the sea, than for him to cause one of these [a]little ones to stumble [in sin and lose faith]. 3 Pay attention and always be on guard [looking out for one another]! If your brother sins and disregards God’s precepts, solemnly warn him; and if he repents and changes, forgive him. 4 Even if he sins against you seven times a day, and returns to you seven times and says, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him [that is, give up resentment and consider the offense recalled and annulled].”

For Reflection

The act of forgiveness embodies the whole of the Gospel. It reflects the essence of love that passes all understanding and which transforms the nature of humanity.  God forgives our transgressions against God and each other. It is as though we had not transgressed at all. God accepts us as we are. If we err God corrects us and we start anew with no resentments. God does not keep score of our faults.  Nor does God hold a grudge. God is pure love and forgiveness is the ultimately loving act.

Pray

Pray by forgiving as Christ forgave his executioners.

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