When you realize you’ve failed spectacularly, what’s the next move?

For the Israelites, throwing a good old-fashioned lament party was the way to go. Lamenting was all the rage in their tradition, thanks to its prime real estate in the Book of Psalms. Post-exile prayers in the Old Testament were all about finding that encouragement and comfort.

Their prayers went a little something like this: “Okay, we messed up big time and totally deserve all this trouble. But are we down in the dumps? Heck no! We admit our faults, our ingratitude is off the charts, and we’re turning to G-d with this gem: yeah, we messed up big time, but You do You.”

Oh, and let’s not forget that self-hatred and guilt – classic Jewish characteristics, right? But surprise, surprise, it’s not just a “Jewish” thing. It’s become a full-blown myth, a never-ending cycle when it comes to Judaism. God’s all about that freedom vibe, especially with the whole Passover gig – breaking free from slavery and all that jazz.

But wouldn’t you know it, there’s always someone trying to cramp our style in His name – priests, Pharisees, and the myth-makers, oh my! Cue the influx of rules and restrictions. But fear not, because G-d’s got a little something up His sleeve – prophets to smash those restrictions to smithereens.

And let’s talk about the big kahuna of freedom: forgiveness.

If you’re not free from the whole package of hatred, resentment, and personal agendas, forgiveness is a no-go. But here’s the kicker – G-d’s the forgiving type. Why didn’t He obliterate Adam and Eve, or the entire Jewish population when they went off the rails, or anyone post-Christian era who still can’t get on board? Because He forgives us, no matter what shenanigans we pull.

So, let’s cut to the chase: the bottom line of Jesus’ message – without diving into the whole Son of G-d debate – is that:

G-d’s love and forgiveness aren’t based on how good we are, but on how good He is.