“Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?”
- Matthew 18:33
In the parable Jesus used to explain the importance of forgiveness, He tells of a story where a merciful master cancelled his servant's debt upon the servant's request for patience and forgiveness. Yet, instead of learning from his master's mercy, this unmerciful servant had a fellow servant jailed for inability to pay his debt.
How many times have we been afforded kindness, and yet failed to show kindness to others for a similar situation? While most scenarios do not involve jail-time, there are everyday instances. For example, in life, I have had many moments when others have taken their own time and patience to go out of their way to help me, even at their inconvenience. Yet, being an impatient and "busy" individual, I feel guilty that there are times when I am not as generous and patient with others when it comes to my attention, energy and time. How quick I have been to forget to "treat others as you'd like to be treated". It's an area I need to continue to work on, and pray for.
Similarly, in faith, God has time and again shown his great patience for us. As a human society, we continue to disappoint and disobey. God remains faithful, loving, and patient, willing to show grace. Be honest, have we demonstrated these same attitudes towards others?
Jesus is clear, we are to forgive others as God has forgiven us. Not once, not twice, and not even just seven times. He has asked that we forgive seventy-seven times--meaning, we are to continuously show grace, as God has shown us. Be merciful.
Reflection: Who do you need to show forgiveness to?
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This week on Christian Calm Radio, our devotional will be focused on the parable of the unmerciful servant. Find blogs like this along with worship and praise music on Christian Calm Radio.