In today's Gospel, Peter asks Jesus how many times he must forgive his brother. I never realized just serious is the penalty for not showing forgiveness. Jesus tells the story of the servant whose loan was forgiven by the King but who then showed no mercy to a man who owed him much less. The King handed the wicked servant over to torturers! We must be aware of what is in store for us if we hold grudges and live with hatred in our hearts.
Fr. Farmer encouraged us to look at a crucifix today, to remember that our sins nailed Jesus there, and yet still He is a God of mercy. So must we also forgive all those who hurt us.
The morning prayer's intercessions from the Magnificat were particularly thought-provoking. Reminded me somewhat of the Litany of Humility, though I found them even harder to accept, perhaps because I am unaccustomed to them.
(Each phrase is followed by "we pray, Lord, have mercy.")
Give peace to those who have destroyed our peace...
Give love to those who have refused us love...
Protect from injury those who have done us injury...
Grant success to those who have competed with us to our loss...
Give prosperity to those who have taken what was ours...
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