Tuesday 6^th May – Tuesday of 3rd week of Easter

Reflection: Acts 7:51- 8:1

FORGIVENESS

As they were stoning him, St. Stephen fell on his knees and cried out in a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them”. Forgiveness appears in some by not returning hate with hate; in others, by waiving of a legitimate right to revenge. But it reaches its peak when no external circumstance is permitted to excuse pardoning others. If all were perfect, what cross should we have to bear with for God’s love?

God has arranged things in order that we may learn “to bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2); for there is no man without defect; no man without his burdens. Therefore, we must be patient and gentle in bearing the defects and infirmities of others, be they what they may; because we too have many things that others must bear with.

In the light of the eternal judgement, he who refuses to forgive others breaks down the bridge over which he himself must pass, for everyone has need to be forgiven. If a man bears resentment against another, how can he ask God for healing? If he has no compassion on others, how can he pray for forgiveness for his sins? (Sirach 28:3-4). Thus, the divine law is that only those who forgive will be forgiven (Matthew 6:14-15).

Christ told the adulterous woman, “Neither do I condemn you; go away and do not sin again” (John8:11). In this same way, Christ is calling us to extend His mercy to those who offend us no matter how unpleasant and painful it may be to us. In doing this, we receive our own healing and happiness.

Prayer: Lord give the grace to forgive others out of love for you. Amen

KNOW YOUR FAITH: CCC 982

There is no offense, however serious, that the Church cannot forgive. “There is no one, however wicked and guilty, who may not confidently hope for forgiveness, provided his repentance his honest”. Christ who died for all men desires that in his Church the gates of forgiveness should always be open to anyone who turns away from sin.

HIDE A TREASURE: “He who demands revenge will suffer the vengeance of the Lord who keeps a strict account of his sins. Forgive the mistakes of your neighbor and you may ask that your sins be forgiven.” Sirach 28:1-2 CCB

Today’s Readings: Acts 7:51- 8:1, Psalm 31:3-8, 17, 21, John 6:30-35