One of the hardest things we face in life is forgiveness—especially when the person who hurt us doesn’t ask for it. Bitterness can take root in our hearts, making it difficult to move forward. But when we look at Jesus on the cross, we see a different way.
As He hung there, suffering unjustly, His first words were not of anger or revenge but of grace: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). He didn’t wait for an apology. He simply forgave.
The Greek word aphiemi, meaning “to release” or “to let go,” reminds us that forgiveness is not about excusing the wrong but about freeing ourselves from its grip. Jesus’ forgiveness wasn’t just for those at the cross—it was for us, too. And just as He has released us from our sins, He calls us to release others.
Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? Not because they’ve earned it, but because Christ has forgiven you and has given you grace enough to forgive others. Today, ask God to soften your heart, to help you let go, and to live in the freedom of God’s grace through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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