Monday, May 18, 2026

Scripture

“If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” John 20:23

Reflections

Shortly before Jesus ascended to his heavenly Father, he gave his followers the authority to proclaim the forgiveness of sins.  This may make some uncomfortable as God alone is the one who ultimately has the power to forgive sins.

This is when it helps for us to be clear on our understanding of how forgiveness happens.  It begins with God who is a forgiving God.  We see this most powerfully through Jesus Christ on the cross.  When we turn to him with repentant hearts, we are once again reminded of his forgiveness.  Our relationship with God is restored.

But then there is forgiveness, person-to-person.  When we practice forgiveness, others experience forgiveness.  When we do not practice forgiveness, others do not experience forgiveness.

We have been given the opportunity to allow others to experience forgiveness and discover the forgiveness that is in Christ Jesus.  Forgiveness is much more than a teaching.  It is a way of life empowered by the Spirit of God.

Our forgiveness of others becomes the means through which others come to experience the forgiveness of Christ Jesus.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for forgiving me my sins through Jesus’ death on the cross.  As a follower of the way of Jesus, help me to be both a practitioner and a proclaimer of it.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: John 20:19-23