Two dimensions of the Forgiveness

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : Lenten Season - 1st Week - Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 6:7-15*

*First Reading : Is 55:10-11*

*Two dimensions of the Forgiveness*

*1) Lent and Forgiveness*

One of the most important themes which we reflect during the time of Lent is Forgiveness

Ultimately everything that we do during the time of Lent is to get reconciled with God and with one another and to experience Gods mercy and Love 

In this journey of Reconciliation it is very important to remember two important things from today's Gospel

*2) Two important things*

*A) Forgive us our Trespasses*

This is something which we ask the forgiveness from the Lord 

In simple words we are asking God, please forgive us and give us your blessing 

Most of us we do this prayer when we come into the presence of the Lord 

*B) As we forgive those who trespass against us*

It appears that, this is the most forgotten part of our life 

We have hardly realised that, God's forgiveness for our sinful deeds also depends on how much we are able to forgive others 

Without forgiving others if one comes in the presence of God, seeking for Mercy from the Lord, one will not experience anything from the Lord

So it is very important to know this fact or this forgotten side of the forgiveness

*3) Two times Highlighted*

The two dimensions of the forgiveness is highlighted two times in the Gospel

First of all in the Lord's prayer

Then again towards the end Jesus says *If you forgive men their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.”*

These words of Jesus shows the two dimensions of the forgiveness

*4) The difficulty for the second Dimension*

Many of us feel very free to ask forgiveness from the Lord, which appears to us very easy 

But asking forgiveness from others or forgiving others when it requires, we find it extremely difficult to practice the forgiveness

Since one needs a great amount of humility and, sincerity, many find very difficult to forgive others and seek forgiveness from others 

*5) How do I practice forgiveness?*

Is it one dimensional approach or two dimensional approach? 

Do I believe forgiveness from others is equally important as that of Forgiveness from the Lord? 

Do I see the Logic that only when I am ready to forgive others, God gives His forgiveness to me?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*