Friday of the First Week

Reflection

Today’s Gospel message (Matthew 5:20-26) is fairly easy to understand, but really hard to do. It asks us not only to refrain from doing evil, but also to always have love, mercy and forgiveness in our hearts. To everyone. Always. “If you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” Reconciliation is not always easy. We are called not only to act in a loving way, but to always “think love” as well. We know that anger in word and deed are forbidden, but so is anger in the heart. 

To forgive is be fully aware of the hurt others may have caused us, and to “let it go,” just as Jesus forgave others, even those who crucified Him.  Elsewhere in Matthew someone asks Jesus “How many times must I forgive my brother? Jesus answers “not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” Today’s Gospel tells us that we must reconcile ourselves not only with God, but with our enemies. 

These rancorous, polarized times challenge us as committed Christians. It is so easy to hate those who hate. It is easy to take offense at so many social or political groups that seem so lacking in virtue. I find inspiration from Pope Francis, a living model of a merciful heart.

Prayer

Lord, help me find the strength to forgive everyone who I need to forgive. Help me reconcile with everyone from whom I have been estranged for too long. Help me find love and mercy in my heart every day.

Vince Bolduc, Professor Emeritus of Sociology

Scripture
First Reading: Ezekiel 18:21-28
Psalm 130:1-8
Gospel: Matthew 5:20-26

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website