Be Kind, Forgive

My parents brought us up on an easy to play, family friendly, card game called Michigan. The best part of it is that it requires poker chips!  One aspect of the game is hoping you are dealt one of four winning cards, which is adorned with chips which have been anted upon at the beginning of each hand.  The other big way to win is to go out of cards first and every other player has to give you a chip for every card remaining in their hand at that time. Last week, I had the opportunity to really rack up, by going out early. Each of the other four players would have had to give me 5-8 chips.  That morning I had been studying in God's Word about the freedom found in forgiveness, so I told everyone I was going to forgive their debt.  Some sighed relief and appreciation.

One child said, "No, no!" At first I was shocked, then I pondered the situation. Was that reaction because he didn't feel worthy of the gift or because he didn't like that precedent being set and feel he should so the same thing in the future. More than likely it is because he's a rule keeper.  He finally gave into the desire of this grandmother's heart as she explained there is freedom and joy in forgiveness and it brought me happiness to do this for everyone.

There is a free gift, filled with forgiveness and eternal life waiting for everyone who calls upon the name of Jesus, yet so many refuse to receive the Gift.  Part of receiving is accepting the call to offer that same kindness and forgiveness to others. Some people would rather hold onto the grudge and keep unforgiveness in their pocket.

"Instead, be kind and merciful, and forgive others, just as God forgave you because of Christ."
Ephesians 4:32 

Today's Coloring Page Promise of God

"Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love."  Joel 2:13