By Philip Raj A csc.
Readings: Ez 18: 21-28; Mt 5: 20-26
The word of God invites us to reflect on the theme of repentance and reconciliation. In the first reading, prophet Ezekiel talks about God’s forgiveness of our sins, no matter how serious they are, if we repent with a contrite heart. When we repent, God relents. But if a righteous person starts sinning and turns away from the Lord, then all his past righteous deeds will be forgotten. God does not enjoy punishing the sinners and God hates the sin, not the sinner.
There is joy among the angels of God over one sinner who repents (Lk 15:10). The Church offers us the sacrament of reconciliation, through which we receive God’s forgiveness and start our lives anew. In the gospel reading, Jesus gives us a task to carry out in our lives, which is not to hold any grudge against our fellow beings. We may face conflicts, disagreements, and hateful feelings, but we must reconcile. If we do not reconcile, it can harm our relationship with God and our neighbours, by becoming a big obstacle.
As we say in the Lord’s prayer, ‘Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us’. If we are merciful to others, then God will also be merciful to us. We are children of light and called to witness the gospel values.
Forgiveness and reconciliation are essential for building our relationship with our neighbours and as a result, we grow closer to the heart of Jesus. As we are in the season of Lent, let us fast from hatred and grudge, to make this Lent meaningful.