As We Forgive Others

Sirach 28:3-4

The vengeful will suffer the LORD's vengeance, for he remembers their sins in detail.  Forgive your neighbor's injustice; then when you pray, your own sins will be forgiven. Could anyone nourish anger against another and expect healing from the LORD?

Matthew 18:35

This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.

The reading from Sirach tells us that when we forgive others, our own sins are forgiven. This is because forgiveness is a reflection of God's character. God is forgiving, and when we forgive others, we are becoming more like Him.

Our reading in Matthew tells us that if we do not forgive others, God will not forgive us. This is a serious warning, but it is also a reminder of the importance of forgiveness. Forgiveness is not always easy, but it is essential for our spiritual health.

How to forgive

If you are struggling to forgive someone, here are a few tips:

• Pray for the person who has hurt you. Ask God to help you to forgive them.

• Remember that everyone makes mistakes. No one is perfect.

• Focus on the benefits of forgiveness. Forgiveness will set you free from anger and resentment. It will also open you up to receive God's forgiveness and healing.

• Take things one day at a time. Forgiveness is a process. It may take time to fully forgive someone.

If you are struggling to forgive someone, pray for them and ask God to help you. Remember that everyone makes mistakes, and that forgiveness is essential for our spiritual health and those that sin.

Let us pray -

Heavenly Father, Savior Son, and Redeeming Holy Spirit,

Daily I see and hear very evil people. Their actions towards your creation are sick. Spare me Lord of any associated anger towards those that refuse to know the goodness that is you, our Lord and Savior. Show me how I can be of service in honor of your mercy as I forgive them for there ongoing transgressions. 

Amen.

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