Something We All Need

There’s a Spanish story about a father and son who become estranged. The son runs away and in a last desperate attempt to reconcile with his son, the father advertises in the Madrid newspaper. The ad read, “Dear Paco, meet me at noon on Saturday in front of the newspaper office. All is forgiven. I love you. Your father.” Wouldn’t you know it, on Saturday 800 Pacos showed up! … Every one of them looking for love and forgiveness from their fathers.

Without a doubt, forgiveness is something we all need. It is also something we need to give. We all make mistakes in life and we all experience failure.  But at the very heart of the gospel is God’s forgiveness.

The prophet Isaiah said, “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be like snow.”

Jesus said, “If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will forgive you.”

I pray that you would know and accept that gift of forgiveness in Jesus Christ. And may you in turn become a more free and forgiving person.

Let’s pray: Have mercy on us, Loving God. Help us to let go of any burdens that we carry or any past mistakes or failures that we can’t seem to let go of.  May your forgiveness and grace wash over us. And then, Gracious God, help us to forgive with the forgiveness we ourselves have received, that new beginnings may be ours through Jesus Christ. Amen.