Tuesday of the Third Week

Reflection

One of the hardest things to do in life is to forgive someone. It is a part of human nature to hold a grudge against someone who has hurt us, but it is even more challenging to admit to our wrong doings and to truly forgive. In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus tells us that if someone has sinned against us, it is our responsibility to forgive them over and over again. In Jesus’ eyes, it is not enough to just apologize with a simple “I’m sorry,” but we must forgive those who have hurt us from the bottom of our hearts. This is not always a simple task to do, however. It takes strength and courage to confront someone whom we have hurt or who has hurt us, and to apologize. Even though this may be challenging at times, the joy we receive from truly forgiving someone will help us to be compassionate like Jesus was. If you are having a difficult time trying to forgive someone, remember how Jesus was able to forgive those who betrayed Him and nailed him to the cross. Give up your grudges and let Jesus help you to truly forgive from the bottom of your heart.

Prayer

Jesus, help me forgive those who have hurt me with the same amount of compassion that You had for those who nailed You to the cross. Give me strength and courage to face those whom I have hurt. May You open my heart to be compassionate and to truly forgive those whom I may have offended.  Amen.

Anita Curtin, ’20

Scripture

First Reading: Deuteronomy 3:25, 34-43
Psalm: 25:4-5ab, 6-9
Gospel: Matthew 18:21-35

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website