Read Mark, chapters 14 & 15
“Palms & Passion”
Jen Bauldree
Forgiveness can be difficult, especially for a young child. My four year-old son has learned about forgiveness and he will usually say “It’s OK, I forgive you” when his sister apologizes to him. There are some days, however, when all he can do is muster up a loud reply of, “It’s NOT OK!”. I think we can all relate to that feeling.
In today’s scripture passages, Mark details the final week of Jesus’ life. From the betrayal at Gethsemane by one of his own, to his arrest, crucifixion and death, Jesus suffers and suffers. Yet through all of this he forgives. For me, this example of forgiveness is what Easter is all about.
As humans, we will sin and we will hurt each other. We have all experienced our share of sharp words, hurt feelings or broken relationships. Many of us live our lives holding onto past wrongs and holding grudges. It’s difficult to forgive someone who you feel may not deserve it. But if Jesus could forgive those who put him to death, how can we not forgive a friend or family member who has wronged us?
As followers of Jesus we should offer forgiveness to one another just as He did. As we draw closer to Easter and the resurrection of the Son of God, let’s follow the amazing example of forgiveness that Jesus set.
