September 13 2026 —
Forgiveness does not come naturally to human beings. It is expected that humans will defend themselves, lash out when attacked, hold grudges, and bite back. So, when human beings hear that they are forgiven, they may even be suspicious or skeptical.
Jesus tells a parable that contrasts the forgiveness of God with our own unforgiving sinful nature. God forgives our huge debt. Who can comprehend such unexpected mercy? Certainly not unmerciful servants, who refuse to forgive small debts. Have mercy on us, Lord, and teach us to forgive like you!
Sunday’s Readings: Genesis 50:15–21; Ephesians 4:29–5:2; Matthew 18:21–35
Sermon: Matthew 18:21–35
Seventy Times Seven: The Mathematics of Mercy
Jesus teaches Peter that forgiveness cannot be counted or limited. Joseph shows mercy to the brothers who betrayed him, and Paul urges believers to forgive “as God in Christ forgave you.” In the parable of the unforgiving servant, Jesus warns against keeping a ledger of wrongs. God has erased our impossible debt through Christ; therefore, forgiven people become forgiving people. Mercy is the new arithmetic of the kingdom.
0 Comments