I'm Sorry

Read: Luke 15:11-24

Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son. --- Luke 15:21

The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 60-62
Romans 5

A meaningful apology can be the first step toward forgiveness. Colleen O'Connor writes in The Denver Post: "The successful apology dissolves anger and humiliation. It shows respect, builds trust, and helps prevent further misunderstanding. A sincere apology makes it much easier to forgive."

And author Barbara Engel says that a true apology depends on the three Rs: regret, responsibility, and remedy.

In Jesus' story of the prodigal son, the headstrong young man who returned home after squandering his inheritance approached his father with humility and remorse: "Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son" [Luke 15:21]. He expressed regret for the pain he had caused, took responsibility for what he had done, and was prepared to work as a hired servant [v.19].

As followers of Jesus, we are instructed to forgive others when they repent and are sorry [Luke 17:3-4]. In the same spirit of humility and love, we must help those who need to forgive us by offering a genuine apology.

A sincere apology doesn't compel others to forgive, but it's the right thing to do. We must take the first step ont he pathway toward the freedom of forgiveness. --- David McCasland

Have you hurt a friend or brother?
Go at once and make things right;
From your heart say, "I am sorry."
How these words bring God delight! --- D. De Haan

A HEARTFELT APOLOGY CAN'T CHANGE THE PAST, BUT IT CAN BRIGHTEN THE FUTURE.