Jesus is teaching His disciples to pray – at their request. He has just told them to ask the Father to forgive their sins. Now He goes on to make the prayer more personal. There are two versions to this next phrase – one little word is different – but both versions put a responsibility on to us and perhaps make us think. The first version reads:

(Forgive us our sins) for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. Luke 11:4

The second goes:

(Forgive us our sins) as we forgive those who sin against us. Luke 11:4

Today you are invited to consider both versions. For – because we forgive everyone who sins against us – do you? How many grudges are you holding onto? Who is God nudging you to forgive as you consider these words? How will you do that? How can you let them know you forgive them. How do you feel about telling them?

Then the second version . As – in as much as, the same way as we forgive those who have hurt us. How complete is your forgiveness? Do you still niggle about small aspects of what people have said or done to you? How do you feel about those people. What is God saying to you about forgiving them completely? How do you feel about forgiving because God forgives you to the same extent He forgives you? Tell God about your struggles and let Him help you today.

May God bless you with the gift of forgiveness – received from Him and given to others today. Celebrate your freedom in Christ!