In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. (NIV)

As we come to the final stretch of winter in Alaska, I’m reflecting on the past few months of being wrapped up in a warm, cozy, and fuzzy blanket near my fireplace as we have experienced snowy days this season. I found myself many evenings bundled up on the couch, diving into the Word, and today, this passage weighed heavy on my heart. When I think about being covered in something, I think of the warm and loving kindness of our good and gracious Father.  

It always astonishes me that he sent his only Son to die for our sins and cover us with his blood. But God sent his only Son for a great purpose, out of immense love and mercy, to forgive our sins. I’m constantly humbled to think about the selfless and compassionate love of Jesus, who didn’t have to die for our sins, but did so willingly. Lending forgiveness can be incredibly humbling and challenging at times, but the struggle is no match for the power of our God.

Why does forgiveness require blood to be shed at all? Jesus is so kind to us that he provided “atonement,” repairing our sins by dying on the cross. By his ultimate sacrifice, he made forgiveness and salvation possible. The shedding of his blood is the greatest sacrifice to forgive our sins. When we put our faith and trust in Jesus as our Savior, we are covered by the blood he shed for us, cleaning and wiping away our sins forever! But here’s the thing, forgiveness isn’t just for the religious. The good news is Jesus came to secure forgiveness for everyone. No matter your past or where you are at now, God loves you too much to leave you the same. He wants more for you.

Paul illuminates this in Ephesians 1:7: “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” How beautiful is it that we have a new identity in Jesus as our sins are wiped away and forgiven? I don’t know about you, but that allows me to breathe a little easier and feel a lot lighter. I wonder, how we can lend forgiveness to others around us in the same way God has shown us that amazing level of forgiveness?

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As we take steps to grow in forgiveness for others, this can challenge us to dig deeper into ourselves and reflect on areas of our hearts that we need to grow. When we think about forgiveness, often, we might think of the phrase: "forgive and forget." Forgiveness is not about glossing over what has happened to forget about it, to stop being angry, or to accept what has happened. Instead, forgiveness involves a beautiful transformation of our internal selves that affects our attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs. As the Spirit transforms our hearts and minds through growing in forgiveness and enabling us to heal, we become more like Jesus.  

Moving into the weekend, I encourage you to find a small pocket of space to reflect on the times God has forgiven you for your sins, even when you didn't feel like you had “earned” his forgiveness. How beautiful is it that we have a Father of unconditional love and forgiveness who showers us with his grace and mercy! What has that forgiveness looked like for you? As you reflect on the loving-kindness God has shown you, how can you also forgive others?

Jesus, you have paid the ultimate price for our sins. Thank you for pouring out your blood through your selfless sacrifice and washing our sins away in your mighty name. When we rise in the morning, let us begin our day by renewing our minds, free from the burden of heaviness and shame because we have been forgiven and redeemed by the blood poured out for us on the cross. It is in your holy name we pray, Amen!