To Forgive and To Be Forgiven

Good Morning!

Matthew 6:9-14 (English Standard Version)

9 Pray then like this:

"Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.[a] 10 Your kingdom come, your will be done,[b]
on earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread,[c] 12and forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.[d]
14 For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you,

Footnotes:
a. Matthew 6:9 Or Let your name be kept holy, or Let your name be treated with reverence
b. Matthew 6:10 Or Let your kingdom come, let your will be done
c. Matthew 6:11 Or our bread for tomorrow
d. Matthew 6:13 Or the evil one; some manuscripts add For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen

The words are familiar. In some circles, these words are recited many times over. There are different names for it: the Model Prayer or the Lord’s Prayer. But how often do we get to see these words play out in our life? Not very often is the answer. But last night … we were permitted the privilege of hearing a dear friend come seeking to be forgiven by friends. There is no need to go into the background – suffice it to say that feelings were hurt and a schism developed that has lasted more than two years. Prayers have been offered up constantly for restoration and healing – at times it seemed like that day would never come. But last night …

Take a hard look at verse 14. If it doesn’t sound familiar, it is because we don’t recite this part of the chapter. But Jesus felt it important enough to place right after He finished the prayer. Why? How are we going to restore relationships if we don’t choose to forgive each other? None of us can claim absolute perfection – all of us are guilty. So if I cannot forgive you, how can I expect you to forgive me? Or why should I expect God to forgive me?

The term “forgive” means “to release”. What are we releasing? Here’s what we are releasing: our anger; our bitterness, our desire for revenge; our hatred; our pride; our own guilt. What are we gaining? We are regaining a friend.

Last night was a night of tears and hugs and laughter ... and of God’s blessing. I am thankful that God allowed me to see this … what a joy that will carry me through today.

Agape’

Mr. Jim