Devotion:
Read Ephesians 1:7-8; 4:32.
Paul writes that the riches of God’s grace are lavished on us with compassion and forgiveness. I have often thought that it is a miracle that God really knows me and forgives me and never gives up on me. God loves us and forgives us extravagantly, not moderately or stingily.
Likewise, God calls us to have compassion and to forgive others. If we treat others with compassion and have empathy toward our brothers and sisters of the world, we can sense their struggles and their pain that will guide us toward forgiveness.
Forgiveness does not mean pretending someone hasn’t hurt us. Sometimes the hurts we experience are extreme and devastating, and we can carry scars throughout life. But if we hold on to anger, it will wear us out and can lead us to hurt others. Forgiveness sets us free from anger and bitterness, allowing us to let go of our desire for vengeance. The relationship may never be restored, but we can begin to see those who hurt us as God sees them-broken people in need of grace.
Personal Worship Option:
Can you forgive others and trust that God will provide justice? Is there someone who needs your compassion and forgiveness? Lord, teach us to forgive, as you have forgiven us. Help us to have compassion for one another and to let go of any anger we might have. Amen.
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