(21) 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.” (22) Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” Matthew 18:21-22.

A creek borders our property, and I often cross the road to sit on a little platform overlooking the water. It’s about a hundred yards from my front door to the porch, but something mysterious happens when I rest here. I’m able to forget my to-do list.

There’s a special time in the evening, when the sunlight makes the water shimmer, That’s when I’m filled with peace that truly surpasses all understanding.

When I considering how this reflection of light fills me with serenity, I’m reminded  I can offer the same blessing to others by sharing the love of Jesus. He is my comforter. He is my joy. He is my peace.

An angry person crossed my path last week. He behaved in an unreasonable manner, and later I learned his son died the previous week. Please keep this person in your prayers. I often pray for him because he’s rude and surly on a regular basis, and I’m tempted to reflect his unpleasant behavior.

It’s only by controlling my actions through the help of Jesus I have any hope of leading others to Christ. I don’t think it a coincidence our pastor reminded us Jesus instructed Peter, ” to forgive seventy-seven times.” Who can keep track of that? Right. So maybe, we should just forgive.

Anger is all around us. Our only hope is Jesus, and I pray we will remember we Christians are to act differently than the lost. After all, the fruit of His spirit is, ‘love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, forgiveness, and self-control.’

Let’s surprise people and love them, and forgive them, no matter how badly they treat us. I pray we can offer forgiveness, as Jesus forgives us. I’m sure He’s forgiven me more then seventy-seven times. I pray I can reflect the light of Jesus on everyone…especially my enemies.