Forgiveness. It’s one of the hardest things to give and, sometimes, even harder to receive. In a world hell-bent on revenge, forgiveness can often seem like weakness. But Jesus shows us something radically different. His life and teachings reveal that forgiveness isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather, the ultimate expression of love—both for others and for ourselves. And nowhere is this more powerfully demonstrated than in the radical mercy of God.
Consider the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). Here we have a son who takes everything his father has given him for granted, squandering it all on reckless living. His poor choices cause him to lose everything his father had graciously provided. By all accounts, this foolish son appears to deserve rejection and punishment. But what does the father do? He doesn’t demand restitution or repayment. Instead, he runs to embrace his lost son with open arms, rejoicing that he has returned. This is the heart of God’s forgiveness—a heart always ready to welcome us back, no matter how far we’ve strayed.
The life of Jesus was the ultimate demonstration of this mercy. Even in the face of unimaginable suffering and injustice on the cross, Jesus didn’t cry out for vengeance. He didn’t raise an army while appealing to his basic human rights. Instead, hear what He says of all who mocked, disavowed, betrayed, and crucified him: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). That’s the God we serve—one whose mercy knows no bounds. A God whose forgiveness reaches even those who nailed Him to the cross, without hesitation or condition.
The Apostle Peter once asked Jesus, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus responded, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:21-22). Of course, Jesus wasn’t giving us a number to keep track of. He was revealing to us that God’s forgiveness is limitless. It flows from a heart of infinite love, and it’s not something we can earn. It’s a gift.
So too, God’s forgiveness is restorative, not punitive. God desires reconciliation, not payback. When we accept this forgiveness, it frees us from guilt, shame, and fear, and brings us into the fullness of His love.
But it doesn’t stop there. God calls us to forgive others as He has forgiven us. Jesus said, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” (Matthew 6:14). This isn’t because God’s forgiveness is conditional or transactional, but because forgiveness is the natural outflow of a heart transformed by mercy. When we forgive, we are reflecting God’s heart. We’re showing the world what God’s love truly looks like.
Alright, let’s get real for a moment. You know, when we talk about forgiveness, it’s easy to nod our heads and say, ‘Yeah, I get it, forgiveness is good.’ But when it comes down to actually living it, that’s a whole different story. And let me be the first to admit—I’ve wrestled with forgiveness myself.
I’ve had times in my life where people have hurt me deeply, and I’m not just talking about minor misunderstandings or disagreements. I mean real pain. The kind that keeps you up at night. In those moments, forgiving felt like an impossible task. Honestly, I’d find myself wondering, ‘God, how can You expect me to let this go? How can I forgive someone who caused me this much pain?’
But here’s the kicker—while I was struggling with forgiving others, I was also on the other side of the equation. I’ve had to face my own mistakes, my own failings, and seek forgiveness from those I’ve wronged. Let me tell you, friends, that’s a humbling journey. You see, it’s one thing to talk about forgiveness, but it’s another thing entirely to ask for it, especially when you know you don’t deserve it.
And let’s be honest—learning to forgive, especially when it comes to our enemies, doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process. It’s messy. It’s two steps forward, one step back. Jesus tells us to forgive our enemies, to love those who persecute us. And I know what you’re thinking—easier said than done, right? It’s tough to love someone who’s actively working against you, let alone forgive them.
But here’s the good news: God knows how hard this is for us. He understands our struggles, our hesitation, and our pain. He’s not standing over us with a ruler, ready to smack our hands when we fall short. Instead, He’s patient. He walks with us on this journey, gently guiding us, reminding us that He’s here to help us grow in this area.
Think about Jesus on the cross. In His last moments, He didn’t cry out for justice or vengeance. Instead, He said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do’ (Luke 23:34). Friends, that is forgiveness in its purest form. And let’s not sugarcoat it—that’s a high calling. That’s a standard that seems almost impossible to reach on our own.
But here’s the thing: We’re not on our own. God is with us every step of the way, pouring out His grace, helping us to forgive even when it feels impossible. And you know what? We need that grace. I need that grace.
So, if you’re listening to this and you’re struggling with forgiveness—maybe there’s someone who’s hurt you, someone you can’t imagine forgiving—let me remind you: God is patient. He’s not condemning you for struggling. He’s inviting you into His process of healing and growth.
Take your time. Lean on God’s Spirit. And remember, this is a journey of grace, not perfection.
In a culture that exalts “eye for eye” vengeance, forgiveness is one of the most countercultural acts we can perform. It’s a radical way to live out the gospel in our everyday lives. When we forgive, we let our light shine before others, so that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16). This is the Great Commission!
God’s mercy is always available. No matter how far we’ve wandered, His arms are open wide, waiting for us to return. And as we experience His forgiveness, we are called to pass it on, bringing the light of God’s mercy into a world that desperately needs it.
You are never out of reach.
Look—your Father is running toward you with open arms with infinite love. Will you run to embrace Him and receive His love and forgiveness?
