Forgiveness

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times? Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times." Matthew 18:21-22

Forgiveness is one of the central concepts of the Christian faith. Yet it so often difficult to do, especially for those who have been weaned on seeking justice from the world. When we harbor or hold onto a hardened heart, our walk of faith with Christ comes to a halt. It is not that Jesus disowns us, rather, it is like we are saying that the forgiveness we have and know from the Father in the Son, through the Spirit isn't good enough for ___________(fill in the blank with the person).

Lord, in your mercy, I pray that hearts of stone will be transformed into hearts of flesh. Fill us this day Holy Spirit with the same love that Jesus has, even as he proclaimed from the cross, "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing." Help those whose faith has faltered, who stand in a rut because they are holding back forgiveness for another and the opportunity for healing in their life. Justice began with you almighty God, and from you, in Christ, we might be embraced in your love and share that with someone else this day. Your will be done, God, nothing more, nothing less, and nothing else.