Change of heart
From today’s Scripture: “You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you…”—Mt 5:43-44
I have often heard people say, “I could never forgive him” or “I hate her for what she did.” Or “Wow, how could they do that?” All are human and emotional reactions, and yet our Gospel today tells us, “love your enemies.” Just as we ask God to forgive us our many sins and faults, we are asked to forgive the sins and faults of others. Jesus loved till the end. I am called to be like him.
Have I ever experienced the effect of actually praying for whoever has hurt me, to wish them well, wish them peace and healing? My prayer changes my heart. And the opposite too: What it is like to be caught in a prison of unforgiveness? What effect that has on me and my relationships?
Can I pray for the gift of forgiveness? Maybe the best I can do is pray that I might want to want this gift.
Let us pray: Lord, I bring to mind those people who have hurt me or whom I don’t trust. I place them before you and ask you to bless them when I can’t. Please, Lord, give me the grace I need to wish them well.
Today’s author is Glenmary Father Dominic Duggins. He has served in mission parishes, formation, and administration over many years. Currently he is House Director of the residence at Glenmary headquarters.
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