“Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.” Matthew 6:12
There is an ancient Asian proverb that tells of a monk who carried a rich lady across a puddle so her feet wouldn’t get wet. The ungrateful woman did not thank the monk for his kindness. Miles down the road the monk’s apprentice asked how he could be so kind to such a selfish woman. The monk replied, “I put her down miles ago, when are you going to?”
The story beautifully illustrates the humble attitude required by forgiveness. It is helpful to remember all the times I have needed forgiveness. It is easier to forgive others when I humbly remember my own shortcomings.
Humility and forgiveness go hand in hand, of course. Jesus points this out when he prays “forgive us . . as we forgive those who have sinned against us.” We extend forgiveness to others because it has been extended to us. Maybe not by the person we are forgiving, but certainly by Jesus. Forgiveness is an act of grace and works against our own selfishness.
Often I have thought about forgiveness as once and done. But the reality of life is much more mundane than that. Instead of a grand gesture, these days I find forgiveness is more often a daily choice.
I have found it helpful to approach forgiveness through small acts of kindness that extend goodwill. I might not feel like it but sometimes making the choice to listen with thoughtfulness, continuing onward in a project with a coworker, or making time to complete a small task together can be a way to extend forgiveness. Movement towards forgiveness, even in small ways, is a gift.
As I make choices to forgive through daily acts of kindness and engagement I do so with humility, realizing that the people I need to forgive may also feel they need to forgive me.
Lent is a time to reflect on our lives. God is calling us to forgive. How could you extend forgiveness to your friends and family today?
Our Father in heaven,
Reveal who you are.
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
AMEN
some comfort and joy 