Sunday Reflections

If you watch a lot of television or movies, many times the plot revolves around getting revenge or killing to avenge a wrongdoing on someone’s part.  Most of the time, we go along with it because justice needs to be done. In the end, all is well. The readings from Sirach and the gospel this weekend would challenge our emotional judgment.  They both preach the need to forgive in the way that God forgives.  It doesn’t mean that we abandon the need for justice but it does mean that we do not harbor or nurture the feelings of anger and revenge.  We all know that this is no easy task.  In fact, for us mere mortals, it is probably a task that is impossible without God’s help.

We forget that we have been forgiven over and over again, even though our offenses may not be as grievous or serious as those of our neighbours.  We listen to the choir sing “Holy, holy” at Mass and think they are singing our song. They are not.  We all stand in need of God’s love and forgiveness or else, why did Jesus die?

Perhaps this coming week, we all can thank God for the mercy we have received and then, examine our relationships with those around us.  Are we harboring any resentment or ill feeling against anyone? If so, then we need to ask God for the gift of a compassionate and healing heart.  May the peace of Christ be with you.