Children often take on the attributes of their parents. Sometimes the attributes are physical, such as children’s facial features being nearly identical to those of their parents. In other cases, children adopt the mannerisms exhibited by their parents. Whether physical or behavioral characteristics are considered, the common denominator is being able to tell that children are like their parents. People even say that some children are the spitting image of their parents.
In a similar way, believers ought to be easily identifiable as being children of God. An important aspect of God’s character that believers should model is forgiveness. Whether we struggle with forgiving others or ourselves, we can learn from the example that God sets for us. God’s forgiveness is not based on our merit or worthiness, but rather it is based upon His own character, As each one of us grows in our relationship with God, we too should be known for our capacity to extend forgiveness. Part of the beauty of forgiveness is that it allows us to move beyond our sin and into stronger relationships with God and other people. We look like our Father when we forgive as we have been forgiven.
God offers forgiveness that is abundant and freely given.”
Our lesson today provides one example that can help correct misunderstandings about how God relates to us as human beings, God already knows us and desires to forgive and restore us. If we want to know what true forgiveness looks like, we can look at God as a model. While people in our culture may want to attach conditions to forgiveness, God offers forgiveness that is abundant and freely given. This level of forgiveness gives us reason to praise God and remember His goodness to us.
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