Forgives

There are some things I can’t erase from my memory. Hurtful words and actions against me or those I love are seared into my conscience. I don’t want to remember these things or feel the emotion that goes with remembering. I can’t recall what I had for lunch yesterday, but I can relive the painful interaction with a teacher, coach, boss, or friend that took place decades ago. I have worked to forgive, but I still can’t forget. That’s what makes today’s passage so amazing to me.

Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He never fails to provide everything I need.

Let’s follow His example by forgiving others and ourselves.

God forgives us completely. We need to forgive others . . . and ourselves.

Jesus always provides another chance. God has not written you off. He has not cast you aside. Your failure is not final. While you must acknowledge and repent of your sin, Jesus waits with open arms to welcome you back, reinstate you, and use you.

We never have to be held back by past mistakes. God forgives and uses our failures to prepare us for the journey ahead.