THE SET UP
Forgiveness is hard. When we have been wronged, or feel we have been wronged, forgiveness can feel like letting that person of the hook. We got hurt and they got a free pass. But Jesus spends a lot of time talking about forgiveness. God’s forgiveness of us and our need to forgive others. And He often ties the two together. If you want God to forgive you, forgive others. If you don’t forgive others, God won’t forgive you. How many times should we do that? Jesus says even if that person wrongs you seven times a day, you should forgive them seven times (and probably think about hanging out with them a little less). We are called to follow Jesus in community, and wherever there is community (people) there will need to be some forgiveness. It’s a challenge, but the freedom that comes from forgiveness is so worth it.
PASSAGE TO READ
Luke 17:1-10 (Page 629 in our house bibles)
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
Do you think there is a difference between forgiving and forgetting? Why or why not?
Have you ever had to forgive someone multiple times? How did you work through that process?
Why do you think forgiveness is so important for us as believers in Jesus?
PRAYER IDEA
When Jesus told his followers to forgive over and over, there response was, “Increase our faith.” If you are having a tough time forgiving someone, ask God to give you the faith to forgive them.