Reconciliation

“If you forgive men their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you." Mt 6:15

Forgiveness of those who do us harm is essential to the Gospel. Jesus asks his Father to forgive those who are crucifying him, and reminds his disciples to put aside everything, even their pilgrimage to the Temple, to reconcile with those from whom they are separated.

Do we have the courage to accept Jesus' challenge in our daily lives? In recent months, families have been so deeply divided by their different political convictions that many either are not talking with one another or have agreed not to speak about politics at all. In the long run, this cannot be good. Perhaps reading something together might help. Recently, Bishop McElroy from San Diego suggested a way for Catholics to think about voting. You can access it here. https://www.ncronline.org/news/opinion/bishop-mcelroy-voting-faith-and-conscience

Reconciliation is an essential element of the Gospel message and we need to find ways to live authentically with those with whom we disagree. Otherwise, the power of the Gospel to heal will be undermined.

Today, forgive someone who has not asked it of you.

Are you holding a past hurt against a family member or friend?