May 16 -- "Seven Times in One Day!"

Today’s Reading: Luke 17:1-19

Forgiving others isn’t just a noble gesture it’s a command from Jesus, a calling for all who follow Him.

In Luke 17, He leaves no room for doubt: no matter how often someone wrongs us, we are to forgive. This isn’t about keeping score or measuring how much grace we extend. It’s about mirroring the limitless mercy God has poured out on us.

Let’s be honest this kind of forgiveness is difficult. At times it can feel impossible, especially when wounds keep reopening. Our natural instinct is to hold on, to let resentment fester. But Jesus warns that refusing to forgive others hinders our own relationship with God, as seen in Matthew 6:14-15. It is when we release that burden that we are set free. Forgiveness isn’t just a one-time decision; it’s a continual act of obedience, a declaration that we trust Gods heart more than our own pain.

Jewish teachers of that day generally taught that forgiveness was important, but it was often conditional, meaning it required certain steps before it was granted. Unlike Jesus’ teaching of unconditional forgiveness, many Jewish teachers emphasized that forgiveness was dependent on the offender’s repentance and efforts to make amends. Some rabbinic traditions suggested that a person should forgive up to three times, but beyond that, forgiveness was not required. But seven times!? In one day!? Radical!

No wonder the disciples, hearing this radical teaching, felt overwhelmed. It went against every human impulse for them to offer grace again and again, especially when someone keeps failing us. So, in verse 5, they cry out, “Increase our faith!” In that moment, they realized that this level of forgiveness required something beyond themselves. They needed Gods help. Their plea shows their humility, their recognition that living out Jesus command is impossible apart from divine help.

So, who in your life needs forgiveness? Maybe the hurt feels fresh, the injustice seems too great to let go. But Jesus calls you to trust Him enough to release that burden today. Will you take that step? Will you offer grace—the same grace that has been offered to you? Trust that Gods strength is greater than your pain, that He will empower you to forgive not just seven times, but seventy times seven. As you release the burden, something remarkable happens. The chains of resentment begin to loosen, and the weight of bitterness lifts. Your heart grows lighter, no longer carrying the exhausting task of keeping score.

Today, may the Lord fill you with His mercy, washing away any bitterness. May His peace guard your heart as you step into the freedom that forgiveness brings. And may you rest, fully surrendered, in the forgiveness that has already been so lavishly given to you. Amen.