In today’s Gospel, Peter asks Jesus how many times he must forgive someone who sins against him. Jesus answers, “Not seven times but seventy-seven times.” Through the parable of the unforgiving servant, Jesus reminds us that God’s mercy is far greater than anything we could ever earn or repay.
We all need forgiveness, and we all know what it means to be hurt by others. Forgiving does not mean pretending that the hurt did not happen or ignoring the need for justice. Rather, forgiveness frees our hearts from resentment and allows God’s healing grace to work within us.
Every time we pray, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us,” we are reminded that the mercy we receive from God is meant to be shared with others. Sometimes forgiveness takes time and requires prayer, patience, and grace.
This week, let us bring our hurts and difficult relationships before the Lord. May He give us the courage to forgive, the humility to seek forgiveness, and the grace to remember how generously He has forgiven us. May the mercy we receive from Christ become the mercy we offer to others.