Forgiveness- A Commitment

09 March 2010

Today’s Readings: Dn 3:25,34-43/Mt 18: 21-35

REFLECTION
The Kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle account. It refers to the rule of God in the affairs of people. It points us to God as actively ruling rather to an area or a group of people over whom he is sovereign.

When Jesus forgives sinners, he reveals that God is a God who forgives unconditionally. Jesus teaches that one who receives extraordinary grace should act in accordance with the grace he receives. Having received unconditional pardon, the servant should have shown mercy towards his fellow servant. Any unforgiving sinner who refuses to forgive is inviting God to withdraw forgiveness from him. Like all the followers of Jesus we must forgive wholeheartedly, not grudgingly.

Today’ Gospel challenges us to forgive not on the level of emotion but of the will. Forgiving those who have offended us is a commitment we make to our Father who never withholds his mercy and compassion for us his children.

PRAYER
Loving Father, teach us to share the grace we always receive from you. Teach us to show mercy and compassion towards our brothers and sisters who have offended us. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.