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Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive? As many as seven times?” Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times. – Matthew 18:21-22

Jesus uses a parable about an unforgiving servant to answer Peter’s question on forgiveness. Jesus’ response to Peter’s suggestion of forgiving someone seven times was shocking. Although forgiving three times was considered generous by the rabbis, Jesus demanded much more. He instructed Peter to forgive not just 77 times, but an infinite amount, making counting irrelevant. It’s comparable to the abundance of stars in the sky, sand on the beach, and grains of sand; forgiveness should be limitless. It’s the way God forgives us. God forgives us large and small offenses, we should be thankful and extend forgiveness to others.

In thanksgiving to God for the gift of forgiveness, we use the words of Psalm 103 – “Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all my being, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. He pardons all your iniquities and health all your ills. He redeems your life from destruction, and crowns you with kindness and compassion.”

Who can you extend forgiveness to this week for a small or large offense? ⁠