Perfecting Forgiveness

As we forgive the wrongs that others have done to us.  —Matthew 6:12 GNT

There are times when one has been grievously hurt through the deliberate acts of another—targeted in an evil way that brings irreparable harm and causes the word ‘enemy’ to have a real person’s name attached to it.

“Forgive and forget,” they say. How trite. How does one forgive when living daily with repercussions of a perpetrator’s actions?

Just as the most expert musician requires daily practice to keep his skills honed, proficiency at forgiveness is possible through daily—even hourly—practice. And like the musician, if laziness or apathy creep in, a slow decline will occur which, in the case of forgiveness, will allow for bitterness which provides a foothold for the devil.

As a Catholic, ample opportunity is given for practicing forgiveness. The Rosary alone brings six times to one’s lips the words, “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Each time the words are spoken, a deliberate choice to forgive can occur in the heart and mind and body of the one saying those words thus staving off bitterness and keeping one’s heart and mind in a practiced state of forgiveness.

Stephen, the first martyr, as he was being stoned fell on his knees and cried out: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” As we pray the Rosary daily and practice forgiveness, we ask St. Stephen to pray for us.

Lord, in our own strength, forgiveness is nigh impossible, but with You all things are possible. Grant us the grace to forgive. Thank you for the Rosary which helps us to do so.

Consider: Is there someone you are struggling to forgive? Begin the daily practice of forgiveness through the help of the Rosary.

View Lisa Livezey’s 1-minute photo devotions at https://www.lisalivezey.com/olivetree.