Greetings Prayer Warriors,
How often when we look back at our past or even just yesterday, we wish we had a “do-over”. Time brings about both perspective and maturity. If only we could have made better choices, swallowed our pride, made amends, and so on and so forth, life would have turned out differently. Or, if only _____ would have realized my apology was sincere and forgiven me.
Even the apostles dreamed of “do-overs”. Take Peter. As he warmed himself by the charcoal fire* in the courtyard in which Jesus was being accused, when questioned, He denied he even knew Jesus, not once but three times. While betrayal is horrific, most can relate to Peter’s resultant anguish, the anguish one feels when they hurt someone they dearly love.
Yet, in an epic act of mercy, Jesus, after his resurrection, guides Peter through a “do-over”.
When they climbed out on shore, they saw a charcoal fire with fish on it and bread. Jesus said to them, “Come, have breakfast.” When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He then said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was distressed that he had said to him a third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” John 21:9,12, 15-:17
This chance to affirm his love for Jesus three times must have brought about tremendous healing to Peter. We too are called to be merciful channels of God’s grace; active participants of forgiveness to bring forth the healing balm of Christ’s love. Let us begin by humbling ourselves within our family, and forgiving those who trespass against us.
Lord, may we imitate your extraordinary forgiveness, letting go of our own hurt to allow your mercy to flow through us to the offender. May we learn to forgive ourselves for all of our offenses, seeking to make amends wherever possible. May we tear down familial walls of division, building instead bridges to facilitate unity. Merciful Savior, send torrents of grace into our families, softening the hearts of all, allowing for contrition, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Jesus, we trust in you! Amen.
“I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’* I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.” Matthew 9:13
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Mercy and forgiveness heal wounds. Thus, pass it on!
*John. 18:18
