Home
Reflection on this Sunday's scripture readings
The Charism of Sion
The Family of Sion
Sion in the UK and Ireland
Events
News
Our History
More about Sion
Links
Ecclesiasticus 27:30-28:7
Psalm 102
Romans 14:7-9
Matthew 18:21-35
The theme for today's scripture passages is forgiveness. The first reading comes from the Hebrew Wisdom tradition and was written by the scribe Ben Sira two or three hundred years before the time of Jesus. His teachings were intended to present the Jewish way of life to the citizens of Jerusalem who were tempted to follow new Greek practices. One of the virtues he encouraged was that of forgiveness rather than allowing anger and resentment to fester. Today's psalm (102) extols God's compassion and love for his creatures. God forgives and heals us and takes away all our sins.
The gospel passage shows Jesus' radical teaching on forgiveness. Matthew presents Peter asking Jesus how often he must forgive his brother who has wronged him. Jesus presents a parable, a story with a message, about a king who forgives his servant his debt. When that servant is unwilling to forgive a fellow servant the king punishes the first servant. The king's mercy reminds us that God's mercy is infinite and we must strive to imitate him in our dealings with others.
Spend some time reflecting on those you need to forgive. Is there anyone you find it difficult to forgive? Acknowledge any resentment and anger within you.
Psalm 103 shows us how the Lord forgives and we are asked to behave in the same way. Pray with the psalm this week and experience God's great forgiveness of your own weaknesses and failings.
Ask for God's help in forgiving those who have hurt you and pray for them. You may find that your attitude towards them changes.