21 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, how many times should I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Should I forgive as many as seven times?”
22 Jesus said, “Not just seven times, but rather as many as seventy-seven times.
Reflection
Peter’s question reveals something deeply human: our desire to place limits on grace. In ancient Jewish culture, forgiving three times was often seen as generous. So when Peter offered “seven times,” he probably thought he was going above and beyond. But Jesus’ response shatters the idea of counting at all. Forgiveness should be boundless, just as God’s forgiveness toward us has no end.
Forgiveness is not easy. It requires us to release resentment, pride, and the desire for revenge. But Jesus calls us into a different way of living, one marked by mercy, compassion, and love. Every time we forgive, we reflect the heart of our God who continually forgives us, even when we fail again and again.
Choosing forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing wrongdoing or pretending hurt never happened. It means refusing to let bitterness have the final word. Forgiveness frees both the offender and the offended, creating space for healing and reconciliation. It is one of the most Christ-like acts we can practice, because it mirrors the cross, where Jesus took our sins so we could be forgiven forever.
No matter if it’s a friend, a family member, or even a long-term enemy, Jesus calls us to forgive. Forgiveness doesn’t always happen all at once. It can be a daily choice, a process of slowly letting go of anger and hurt. Even if it’s just a little bit each day, each step softens your heart and opens the door for peace.
by Abby Clark
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the limitless forgiveness You show me every day. Help me to extend that same grace to others, even when it feels impossible. Soften my heart, remove bitterness, and teach me to forgive as You forgive—seventy times seven and beyond. May my life reflect Your mercy and bring peace where there has been pain. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
