Four hundred and ninety times. So often the Bible tells us to forgive someone.
Matthew 18:21-22 21Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?'22Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.[-in]
Can you imagine this conversation between Peter and Jesus? I'm sure Peter thinks he's being reasonable, maybe even generous, when he suggests forgiving someone seven times. I picture him with his mouth open as he hears Jesus answer, "not seven times, but seventy-seven times." I wonder if Peter gave a rebuttal or said something like "wait a minute, let me tell you what happened!" I think the Bible doesn't tell us more because there's no need to know more. Jesus calls us to continue to forgive, regardless of the details or reasons why forgiveness is needed. If it seems unreasonable to forgive someone more than once or twice, think about how often God forgives you. He places no limit on the number of times you turn to Him with your sincere heart and humbly ask for forgiveness. He's just happy you're back. May we do our best to model our forgiveness after God's example.
