THE GOD OF UNLI-FORGIVENESS

 

THE GOD OF UNLI-FORGIVENESS 

Jesus tells His Apostles not only to forgive seven times but seventy-seven times. It means we must forgive without limit. This is a radical teaching because revenge or getting even is the order of the day during Jesus’ time. If ever forgiveness is given, maybe once or twice is enough. Thus, the seven times suggested by Peter in the Gospel is already a generous one. But Jesus takes advantage of the situation to reveal His teaching on forgiveness. His reason is obvious—He does not want anyone whom God entrusted to Him to be lost. He believes that goodness is inherent in everyone and we all have the capacity to change.

In the Gospel, the servant was forgiven by his master, but he did not do the same to his fellow servant who had a lesser debt. The Lord’s Prayer says: “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Unfortunately, we believe we deserve to receive forgiveness but others do not.

This is one sickness that ails our society today. We set different standards on people. We fail to heed Jesus’ call to love others as we love ourselves. We believe that some people must be forgiven while others deserve to be punished and not forgiven. It even becomes more one-sided when the one involved is a loved one, a friend, an acquaintance, or ourselves. Can you imagine if God will render to us the same measure? We ought to be thankful that God plays no favorites. There is no sin He cannot and will not forgive. God reminds us that we change not because of the punishment but because we are loved. And one expression of His love is forgiveness.

Finally, we should see forgiveness as an opportunity to do good rather than a burden. If we think about it, how many times have we really made an act of forgiveness? For if we had really forgiven, we would always welcome the opportunity to do so. It does not only produce a good feeling but is also a great privilege to be an agent to put an end to division, share God’s mercy to others, and be appreciated for being compassionate like God. Fr. Benny Tuazon

----------- REFLECTION QUESTIONS ----------

Is there someone in your life whom you need to forgive again and again? How does it feel to do so?

Thank You for Your unending forgiveness, O Lord. Amen.