Forgiveness…we are all called and yet challenged to forgive others. If you are like me, there may be those whom you struggle to fully forgive. It is easy to love those who do not challenge or hurt you. Our readings this weekend challenge us on this topic. We are to forgive all, especially those whom it is hard to forgive.

The phrase that has resonated with me this week comes from the last line of our first reading: “I would not harm the LORD’s anointed.” Do we see all people, especially those who have hurt us the most, as loved and anointed by God? How often in our sinfulness do we respond from a hurtful place and do not wish good things nor pray for those who hurt us? Seeing that person as loved, created, and desired by God (no matter what) helps shift us from a sinful place of anger and hatred to one of forgiveness. Why are you holding onto the grudge or judgment? What purpose is that serving you? These are all questions to help us examine interiorly so we can move towards forgiveness. How can you ask for God’s grace to forgive those who have hurt you the most this week?