Forgiveness
ISAIAH 55:10-11; PSALM 34; MATTHEW 6:7-15
The gospel presents us with the Lord’s Prayer. Jesus gives us a model of prayer in the “Our Father”. The prayer begins with a focus on God. Often times our prayers tend to focus on our situations, wants and fears rather than God. This prayer comes in during this season of lent because of the central place of forgiveness and prayer. When we ask for forgiveness we are directly implicated. Thus, we too must forgive otherwise we shall not be forgiven. Unforgiveness disqualifies us for forgiveness and it delays spiritual results. Therefore, Jesus says; “if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, first go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.”(Matt.5:23-24). This means that until you forgive, your offering will not ascend to heaven. And so, the first reading reminds us about the firmness of God’s word. It is never empty. Therefore, forgiveness is not an empty word but a word that should be internalized for authentic Christian life. We can’t come and ask for forgiveness when we can’t forgive. “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. whatever a man sows he shall reap” (Gal.6:7.
Let us prayer
Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
