As we move away from this day dedicated to seeking and granting forgiveness from and to one another, a simple and sinful priest is humbled by the look seen in the eyes of the faithful who came to Liturgy on this day, and who stayed to take part in the Vespers of Forgiveness. Within those eyes, one did not need any particular gift to see true remorse, and the sincere desire to connect with brother and sister in Christ, and through them, connect to our Lord and Master.
We all certainly remember and pray "the Lord's Prayer" - many times each day. But we do not nearly so often remember Jesus' words which follow His instruction on how to pray. "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." (Mat 6:14-15)
On this day, may our Lord richly bless all of you who drew near to one another by granting that unconditional forgiveness to those who requested it, both of whom approached one another in purity of heart!
No comments:
Post a Comment