Psalm 32:1 – Happy are those whose sins are forgiven, whose wrongs are pardoned. (GNB)

I purchased a special surprise for our daughter and son for Valentine's Day. "Valentino" is a special beanie baby bear that Stephanie wanted, and it was difficult to find this gift. I thought our son would be equally pleased with the beanie baby I chose for him. I usually hide gifts in a certain place so that the children will be surprised when they receive them. I was anticipating particularly the joy on the children's faces when they got their Valentine's gifts.

The day before Valentine's Day my daughter came crying to me. "Mom, I saw 'Valentino'. I knew it was wrong the minute I saw her. I'm sorry." I told the children that there would be no Valentine's presents. My daughter had encouraged my son to look at the presents. He saw no wrong in doing what she asked him to do.

Stephanie was particularly sorry for the rest of the day. I did some reflecting on this, and the next morning I gave the children their presents. I explained to Stephanie that I forgave her.

The reason I gave the gifts anyway was that it provided an excellent opportunity to show what God's forgiveness is like. Although we do not deserve forgiveness, God forgives us!

Prayer: Wonderful God, Your forgiveness is amazing! We do not deserve to be forgiven yet you love us so much that you sent your only Son, Jesus, to die on a cross so that we might receive forgiveness. We praise your holy name. Amen.

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About the author:

Mary Jane Hanson <mjh013@sasktel.net>
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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