We have an unspoken social custom that says when we receive something from someone, we should find a way to repay the kindness or gift. Sometimes we try to get out from under the social norm by rationalizing why we think that we are not obligated to return the favor. At times, we may not be obligated to return the favor or we may be unable to do so. But the greater the kindness or gift given to us, the more we feel the pressure, at least internally, to return the favor.
The Lord’s Prayer continues; “and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” (Matthew 6:12) We receive forgiveness through the shed blood of Jesus Christ on the cross. Through that most generous gift of grace and mercy we are forgiven, when we accept the gift by faith. Since we have so generously and graciously received forgiveness, we should also forgive when others offend us.
Reluctant Retiree 