Every Sunday in worship we say the Lord’s Prayer but
congregations may have variations on one particular word in that prayer. Some
use the term “Debts” others use “Trespasses” and a few use “Sins.” For the most
part these terms are interchangeable in this context. They each do carry other
meaning in different context.
Trespass - is to
cross a boundary of another person and cause damage. There are places where you
can be shot for trespassing on the property of another person.
Debt – as in
owing money on a loan or to be in someone’s debt for a kindness.
Sin – is a
separation of a relationship particularly with God.
We do a dangerous thing in the Lord’s Prayer when we ask God
to forgive us our debts/trespasses/sins as we forgive other for what they do to
us. If we are unforgiving by this agreement we will not be forgiven and that
will have eternal consequences. Which ever word you use say it with care and
understanding.
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