Thursday August 17th: Mercy and Forgiveness

This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”

Matthew 18:21-19:1

Today’s Gospel is deep and challenging. We are working towards a Synodal Church, a Church where everyone feels at home and included. The Synodal Church is a place where people are free to use their gifts and talents for the benefit of others and at the same time grow and develop themselves. It is a place where people will work together as one body of Christ.

To make this a reality we need as our foundation stone, mercy and forgiveness. These are not easy to embody. Each of us must seek to appreciate the mercy of God shown to us and the many times God has forgiven us. Only when we can do this will we be merciful to others and forgive them. Forgiveness will lead to a love that will bind us together.

Lord Jesus, you are love, mercy and forgiveness themselves. Make our hearts like unto thine as we come to a deep awareness of your love, mercy and forgiveness for us. Amen.