Matthew 18:21-35 (ICB)
When the US Civil War ended in 1865, more than half a million soldiers lay dead, the economy and infrastructure of the nation was shattered, and people remained deeply divided politically. The observance of Mother’s Day in the United States began with the efforts for peace and reconciliation of one woman In 1870, named Anna Reeves Jarvis. The daughter of a Methodist minister she began in her community a day called “Mother’s Friendship Day” in an effort to reunite families and neighbors alienated by the war. There is always great suffering when friends and families are fractured and unwilling to forgive.
The gospel of Jesus Christ brings the promise of peace and reconciliation with God and with each other. When Peter asked Jesus how often he should forgive a brother who sinned against him (Matt. 18:21), the Lord surprised everyone with His answer of “seventy times seven” (v.22). Then He told an unforgettable story about a servant who had received forgiveness and failed to pass it on (vv.23-35). As God freely forgives us, so He requires that we extend what we have received to others.
With God’s love and power, forgiveness is always possible.