"For your name’s sake, O Lord"

Today’s readings: Daniel 3:25, 34-43; Matthew 18:21-35

This week seems to focus on looking honestly at your own life so that you can be merciful to other people.

Today’s Gospel, using a parable, Jesus tells us that we will be judged and treated the way that we judge and treat others.  He shares this parable to help Peter to understand the need to always forgive others.

I think what is equally important is how well do we forgive ourselves.  In fact it seems a necessity to be able to forgive yourself before you can really forgive others.

In my life it seems that the times that I am the least patient with people and probably the most demanding are typically the times that I have been having a difficult time forgiving myself for my attitude or decision I had made.  Even when I try to forgive someone, it is hard to do so from the heart…and to forgive them totally.  I don’t know if it is due to wanting them to be miserable also, or if it is just that I can’t fully see what is needed on my part because I have become so inner focused. 

The main person in the parable seems to be like that also.  When he begged for the master to be patient with him while he continues to produce his debt, the master found mercy on him and actually erased the debt.  But, it seems like there is still so much inner turmoil, or embarrassment, that when he sees someone who owes him money he forgets the amazing gift that he was just given.  It seems so obvious that he would immediately forgive the other person.  But, he is so focused on himself that he does not show mercy.

I am glad that I have the opportunity to examine my heart and have the sin wiped away each time I receive Reconciliation.  But, I have to remember to allow myself to live in that freedom.   That way, I will have the opportunity to be more forgiving and patient to others.  If I cannot do this, then God will treat me the same way.

Today, let us challenge the inward examination.  How can you be more forgiving and patient with yourself and others?  How can you treat people the same way God treats you?  Whose debts do you need to forgive?  How long has it been since you have approached God, with all humility, and asked for mercy (not because He won’t give it unless you ask, but because admitting we have need of mercy is needed for our growth)?