If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.
Right after speaking peace and breathing the Spirit on His disciples, Jesus gives them a startling mission: forgive. In a world shaped by revenge, silence, and bitterness, resurrection people are called to release, restore, and reconcile. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting or excusing what was done. It means refusing to let death have the last word in our relationships.
Jesus’ resurrection was not only a victory over the grave but also a victory over resentment. From the cross, He said, “Father, forgive them.” From the empty tomb, He empowers us to do the same. Forgiveness may not change the past, but it can resurrect the future.
Write the person’s name (or situation) on a piece of paper. Plant it in some soil or place it at the base of a potted plant. Let this symbolise buried bitterness becoming new life.
Lord Jesus, You forgave even when it hurt. Teach me to forgive not by my strength, but by Your Spirit alive in me. Amen.
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