Fr. Gabriel's Reflection
24th Sunday in Ordinary Time A
Dear Beloved Family of St. Anselm,
This Sunday’s Gospel delves into a profoundly sensitive aspect of our faith: forgiving those who have caused us harm. Forgiveness is a deeply personal request, and in certain instances, it may be the most daunting task we are ever asked to undertake. As we are moved by God’s boundless mercy, forgiveness naturally flows from our broken and humbled hearts. Let’s explore today’s Gospel in four distinct movements:
1. Presentation of the problem – Peter's question in the Gospel reading seems to presuppose that it is unrealistic to expect human beings to forgive without limit. Jesus responds in a Jewish manner, stating that we can’t impose boundaries on mercy or forgiveness. This raises questions: Should I allow my alcoholic uncle to stay with us and disrupt my children’s lives, as long as he apologizes and promises not to repeat his actions? No. Forgiveness doesn’t compel us to put ourselves or others at excessive risk or set the sinner up for further failure. Nor does it imply reverting to the original situation or not setting boundaries. It means releasing resentments, bitterness, hatred, desires for revenge, and the urge to lash out at someone for their actions or inactions. It involves letting go of the need to change the past. Ultimately, forgiveness is freeing; a crushing weight is removed when we receive this gift from God.
2. Poverty that is profound – The Lord’s parable begins by describing a man who owes an immense amount—ten thousand talents (μυρίων ταλάντων). His profound poverty makes it impossible for him to ever repay his debt. This man represents each one of us; we have all committed the infinite offense of rejecting a God who is infinitely loving and faithful.
3. Pity that is personal – Moved with compassion, the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan. Notice how personal the mercy is. This man is you and me. We must know our poverty and recognize our inability to save ourselves. Knowing that Jesus saves us wholly and freely, we forgive and love others.
4. Pitilessness that is personal – When that servant had left, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a much smaller amount. He seized him and started to choke him, demanding, "Pay back what you owe." Apparently, this wicked servant never confronted his true poverty and refused to accept the gift he had received.
In the week ahead, let us remember that forgiveness is a gift that we must receive from God, and it is a work of God in us. We should–we must–ask for it. Even if we feel hurt, we must seek the gift; it will bless us and prepare us to receive more mercy.
Amen.