by Kala Loptien

Brand New

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking the Sound Cloud link.

“Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”
Colossians 3:13 English Standard Version

I was blindsided by the Lord’s Prayer on Sunday. The prayer I’ve said for years — melodically, methodically. It cut to the deepest corners of my heart.

My daughter and I had, what I call, “a moment” that morning. It was one of several for the weekend. By Sunday, I was weary, determined to be silent and resolute the rest of the day. I wasn’t cracking. Stubbornness at its finest! I felt hurt and rejected. My heart couldn’t take much more; so the walls went up quickly.

And then, without warning…my walls were demolished. During a beautiful baptism of a baby boy, the congregation recited the Lord’s Prayer. I felt a stirring in my soul and placed my hand on her little shoulder, remembering her sweet baptism day last fall. Then the words, “forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those…” rolled off my tongue. My eyes welled with tears. I trembled as my six-year-old looked up and said, “I’m sorry, mommy.” I hugged her tightly.

I needed some correcting and reminding of my own that morning. And, of course, He was right on time. We’ve had so many “moments” in our lives, if we’re honest. He could’ve been frustrated beyond return at our disobedience. He could’ve given us the silent treatment — leaving us to our own devices — worried and wondering. Instead, He sent His son to correct, reconcile and redeem the world. His Words light our path, providing the guidance, provision and correction we need. His Spirit offers comfort, encouragement and, when necessary, conviction. We grown children continue to learn and train up precious ones, teaching them there is no weakness in forgiveness. In fact, there’s freedom, renewed strength, greater understanding and love. That night, we talked about all the happenings of the weekend, ending with how awesome it is that we get to start each day brand new. Thank you, Lord.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado