An important theme which runs through the Bible is the inability of humankind, both individually and collectively, to keep our promises. The Israelites are chastised again and again for stubbornly pursuing their own selfish interests and breaking the covenant they had with God. God continues to forgive them, and in the New Testament when Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive his neighbor, Jesus tells him that he should forgive him not just seven times, but seventy-seven times, reflecting the divine patience for human weakness. We are all prone to breaking our promises and to sinning against God and our fellow man, and should be comforted by His everlasting mercy. Our sinning will someday come to an end, but His mercy and forgiveness will last forever. Strive to be more faithful in your own life and to mirror God’s everlasting mercy when those around you fall short.
