Breaking Free From the Counting

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”
Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times” (Matthew 18:21-22).

I don’t count calories—I count points. That’s the new way Weight Watchers has established their healthier way of living program. All foods and activities are given a point value. For the food, it is calculated by the protein, fiber, carbs and fat. All fruits are given a zero point value and most veggies are, too. The bonus is that there are 49 extra weekly points to use so that the person on the program doesn’t feel like they are missing out. I personally find the program working well for me so far, and truly enjoy the fellowship and tips at the meetings. Tracking points each day is becoming a habit for me.

Isn’t it interesting that there were a certain number of times given to forgive someone? I think the cultural score for forgiveness during Jesus’ time was below seven times, so Peter thought he would up the ante and say seven. Jesus helps him break out of that counting box by saying 77 times. Of course, he was saying to just forgive and don’t track the trespasses against you. I wonder if we struggle with forgiving seven times or even once. I wonder how many wrongs we have done against God, but I imagine a lot more than 77. Yet, God forgave us over and over again—he didn’t track. Jesus paid the cost for all of our sins. Making the habit of stop tracking the trespasses will enable us to live a healthier and happier life.

Prayer: Thank you, dear Lord, for forgiving me. I pray that I may forgive others freely and not hold on to any bitterness that will make me unhealthy and unhappy. Amen

Faith Tip: Forgive and be set free. Start today.

Written by Kathy Bruins