“And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” Matthew 6:12
“This petition is so important that it is the only one to which the Lord returns and which he develops explicitly in the Sermon on the Mount. This crucial requirement of the covenant mystery is impossible for man. But “with God all things are possible.”” Catechism of the Catholic Church # 2841
Forgiveness and mercy, two requirements of God upon our souls, non-negotiable and impossible.
“But Jesus looked at them and said, “For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible.”” Matthew 19:26
“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; but if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:14-15
Jesus demands that we show mercy and give forgiveness to others. The more they’ve wronged us, the more is the requirement that we give forgiveness.
““Let the greatest sinners place their trust in My mercy. They have the right before others to trust in the abyss of My mercy.” Divine Mercy in My Soul # 1146
We are told to follow His lead – to be like God Himself in this teaching. “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” Luke 6:36
This is so impossible. How can I forgive the person responsible for (insert sin) in my life? How can I ever forgive this person for taking my loved one away? How can I forgive that wrong?
“God! Don’t you know what You’re asking of me?”
God responds, “For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible. I am not asking you to do this without help. In fact, I am asking that you fully trust and rely upon ME to do this. The more you rely and trust Me in forgiving, the more you will be like Mu Son. The more you trust My power, the closer we will be. Just trust Me, and forgive.”
Ever pondered this petition of the Lord’s Prayer and this teaching? If we don’t forgive as we’ve been forgiven, then we will not be forgiven. Jesus said this several times. But, how do I start to forgive those most overwhelming of transgressions? As God said, trust in His power. Jesus didn’t just die on a cross, He gave us an example as He died for all mankind (before, during and after the cross).