Matthew 18:21-22 - Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.

In Matthew 18:21-22, Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive his brother who sins against him. Jesus responds by saying not seven times, but seventy-seven times. This passage teaches us about the importance of forgiveness and the boundless mercy of God.

Forgiveness is a central theme in the teachings of Jesus. In this passage, Jesus challenges Peter's understanding of forgiveness by emphasizing the need for unlimited forgiveness. By using the number seventy-seven, Jesus is not setting a specific limit, but rather emphasizing the limitless nature of forgiveness. Just as God has shown us mercy and forgiveness, we are called to extend the same grace to others. The parable of the servant in this passage further illustrates this point. The servant is forgiven a massive debt by his master, but he refuses to forgive a smaller debt owed to him. This parable reminds us that we have been forgiven much by God, and therefore, we should be quick to forgive others. Forgiveness is not always easy, but it is essential for our own spiritual well-being and for maintaining healthy relationships with others. As we reflect on this passage, let us examine our hearts and ask God to help us cultivate a spirit of forgiveness.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of forgiveness that you have shown us through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to extend that same forgiveness to others, even when it is difficult. Give us the strength to let go of grudges and to release any bitterness or resentment that we may be holding onto. Teach us to forgive as you have forgiven us. In Jesus' name, Amen.