In His Image: Daily Reflection # Crowning Moments: A Mother's Heart, Lessons in Forgiveness and Love

The quote that my wife loves resonates deeply with me: “Sometimes, the people you think you’re saving are actually saving you.” I plan to use that today because I want to talk about my wife and the beautiful journey we’ve been on as a blended family. For those who know us, you are aware that our family dynamic has its challenges, especially with our children's biological dad and stepmother.
It’s been difficult for me because I understand the pain and hurt my wife experienced years before we ever met. We've have had many conversations about it. Recently our beautiful daughter, Sydney, just turned 16 and celebrated her quinceañera-a significant milestone in Mexican culture, marking a girl's transformation into womanhood. This tradition is particularly meaningful, as the mother traditionally removes the little tiara and places a crown upon her daughter’s head.
However, Sydney's stepmother took the lead in organizing the quinceañera, planning everything without even including us in the preparations or the financial side of things. On several occasions, the stepmother made decisions unilaterally and excluded Starla from participating, which understandably upset me. I felt compelled to protect my wife and daughter from what seemed like manipulation.
In my heart, I was resistant to attending, feeling that the stepmother should have no involvement in this special moment. I prayed fervently, asking God for guidance, and I told Him if He wanted me to go, I needed a change of heart. Miraculously, that change came just a few days before the event. God reminded me that we weren’t going for the stepmother or the other side of the family; we were going for Sydney.
When we arrived, I saw something remarkable: my wife, despite her past hurt, interacted with people who had caused her pain. She smiled genuinely, conversing with everyone, including the stepmother and her ex-husband, as if nothing had ever happened. In that moment, I witnessed true forgiveness-such a profound example of Christ's love.
This reminds me of the scripture, Matthew 18:21-22: “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times,’” (NIV). My wife embodies this scripture. She forgives not just for the sake of peace but out of love, and because she understands the grace that has been extended to her.
Seeing her act with grace and forgiveness transformed my understanding. If Christ can forgive me for my shortcomings, how can I not extend that same forgiveness to others? My wife's ability to forgive has been a powerful testament to the reality of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.
Forgiveness is not just an act; it’s a journey. It’s something I constantly have to remind myself to embrace. I admit, I struggle with holding onto grudges; however, my wife inspires me daily to strive for a spirit of forgiveness. She genuinely wishes the best for those who have hurt her, and that, to me, reflects the power of Christ’s love and the transformative nature of forgiveness.
Today, I want to encourage you. Is there someone you need to forgive? Don’t let another moment slip by in anger or resentment. Unforgiveness can steal precious memories and moments of joy. If I had let unforgiveness consume me, I would have missed seeing our daughter in her beautiful dress, becoming the queen she is on her special day.
As I share this message with you, I find myself in tears, overwhelmed with gratitude for the moments we almost lost due to grudges. Let us take a moment to reflect, to forgive, and to extend grace to one another, as we have received it.
Thank you for watching “Crowning Moments: A Mother's Heart, Lessons in Forgiveness and Love.” Now, let’s take a moment to pray together.
Father, in the name of Jesus, we come before You right now. We are continually amazed by Your incredible forgiveness in our lives. Your Word reminds us in Ephesians 4:32 (NIV), 'Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.' Lord, help us to truly understand and embody this forgiveness.
We recognize that pride and stubbornness can rob us of precious memories due to unforgiveness. James 1:19-20 (NIV) tells us, 'Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.' We do not want to waste time on anger, grudges, and unforgiveness. Help us, Father, to release those who have hurt us, as we seek to move forward in our relationship with You.
We acknowledge that unforgiveness can create a disconnect in our lives, hindering Your work within us. Lord, we ask for Your assistance right now in forgiving those who have wronged us. We desire to hear from You and to receive guidance in the direction we are meant to take. Let us not waste this holiday season by missing out on memories due to unforgive