Week 4 | Day 5 | Jesus’ Love Abounds

Command:

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. Matthew 18:21-22 (NIV)

Read:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 (NIV)

Reflect:

My former sister-in-law lashed out viciously towards my parents, blaming them for raising a son she couldn’t love anymore. She harassed family members with slander and hate-filled words. Most of the family wanted nothing more to do with her. My sister-in-law was angry and hateful towards peaceful, loving parents. It was very hard to watch this harmful behavior.

My parents saw things differently than the rest of the family. They wanted to help care for their young granddaughter and support my brother. They didn’t retaliate, respond, or engage in arguments. 

My parents understood that my brother and his child needed love and support. They managed to stay neutral while watching my brother’s marriage unravel. After the divorce was final, the healing began. No forgiveness was extended from my sister-in-law, but they forgave her. This has allowed them to grow in relationship with their granddaughter. Watching my parent’s example, has taught me how to love and forgive with the ways of Jesus. 

We have all been wronged in some way throughout our lives. In big ways and small ways. Jesus was ridiculed, beaten, and mocked. Yet he took this abuse silently. He knew his pain and suffering would lead to everlasting life for us. He was the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. He accepts us just as we are, if we ask. Love is patient, love is kind. Remembering Jesus’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross, we can strive to love and forgive, as he did for us.

React:

Do you put up your defenses, fight until the bitter end, and then gloat in your victories? Or do you forgive and offer love even when it’s difficult?

Pray:

Help me to be more like you. Forgiving, patient, loving, and not keeping score when everything seems out of balance. I want to remember all you have done for me on the cross, through your sacrifice. Guide me away from an earthly perspective, looking heavenward for your ways.