Every Sunday, Bishop Edward Malesic writes a Scripture reflection for the faithful. Follow the bishop on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Click HERE for the readings.
We know that Lent is a season of discipline. It is a time that we use to allow the Lord to stretch our hearts, minds, and bodies. I am thinking of training camps for athletes, a time when they are tested and strengthened for their upcoming competitions. Lent is like that for us — a way to make us more fit for the battles that lie ahead.
So, what is the training session in today’s Gospel? What skill does Jesus want to teach us? It is the skill of forgiveness. Jesus “coaches” us to be more like him who forgave all of us from the cross. And Jesus gives us this lesson, “If you do not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.”
Let’s practice that lesson a bit today. Think of a person who has hurt you and let go of the hurt. Forgive. It may take time but ask the Lord for extra help to show you how to do what you know needs to be done. Because unless you forgive that person, you will always be chained to that person, and not be completely free to love God with all your heart. Forgiveness doesn’t always lead to reconciliation with the person who has done you harm. Sometimes that’s just not possible, but forgiveness does lead to peace in the one who forgives.