SATURDAY, November 21

To forgive is as important as to love. Jesus makes forgiveness a radical new imperative. It deflates the "eye for an eye" mentality, and it makes holding grudges unnecessary.

It is so important Jesus includes it in the prayer he teaches the disciples: "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." It is the only condition placed on God's mercy. We must forgive one another from our hearts: as we have been forgiven, we must forgive.

This is easier said than done. We build walls around our hearts when we are hurt. Saying to someone who apologizes "Okay, I forgive you," but in a tone of anger or insincerity, does not make for absolution for the offender or for us.

If we need time to process both the hurt and the apology, that is okay. Forgiveness is too important to minimize. But leaving someone hanging indefinitely is not godly behavior, either. Restoring a right relationship is worth the time. Healing two hearts at once can be the most loving act we ever accomplish.

And because we are human and sinful, we will have lots of chances to practice forgiveness.

PRAY for the Diocese of Washington (Province III, USA)