Is there someone in your life that you haven’t forgiven for a wrong done to you? Why not practice Christian charity now? - Daily Reflections August 14,2013

CHRISTIAN CHARITY, THE BEST MEDICINE

 

St. Maximillian Mary Kolbe is known as a “martyr of charity.” He volunteered to replace one prisoner chosen to die of starvation. The prisoner pleaded for his life because he had a wife and children. Maximillian survived the punishment but was given a lethal injection, which he willingly received. He is a modern-day saint. He exemplifies the spirit of true Christian charity.

       Christian charity is the focus of Jesus’ reconciliation process. It bears more responsibility on the one who forgives, and gives all the chances for the sinner. Jesus wants to save everyone. He will leave the 99 to seek the lost one. He will welcome a prodigal son back to the fold. He will still give leadership to the Apostle who had denied Him repeatedly. He will welcome and give second chances to a prostitute, a tax collector, a murderer, a liar and every sinner He knows. Their salvation is foremost. What counts for Him is their willingness to be reconciled. Such is Christian charity.

       This is how we must understand today’s Gospel. Three opportunities are available for a reconciliation: first by themselves, second with another person, and lastly, in a community. Hopefully, the first level is enough. If not, everything will be settled by the third level. The goal is to assist the reconciliation process. The process is beyond proving one person wrong. The goal is to come to terms. When something goes wrong between two members of a community, the whole community is affected. Only a reconciliation of the two will heal them and the community. The attitude needed? Christian charity!

       This virtue is hard to practice. We tend to get even and to justify our actions. But this attitude will go nowhere. It undermines and ruins the very foundation of relationships. Jesus knew them. He gave the best remedy: forgiveness. Jesus showed it when He was nailed on the cross. The very first words He uttered were words of forgiveness. It was all over His teachings as well. It is at the heart of the Christian faith. Its foundation? Christian charity. Fr. Benny Tuazon

 

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: Is there someone in your life that you haven’t forgiven for a wrong done to you? Why not practice Christian charity now?

 

I need Your grace, Lord, to forgive. Work in me, Lord, because I cannot do so on my own.