Through Spiritual Trials by Wagner Francis;

Author:Wagner, Francis;
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: CareNotes

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When we forgive, we do not forget.

Rather, we remember in a different way.

—Fr. Robert Schreiter, C. PP. S.

Healing becomes possible precisely because, and to the extent that, the wrongdoing is acknowledged for what it was, and restitution is sought for the damage. This is hard work, but it allows the offended to come to a realistic acceptance over time, rather than dismissing or repressing the hurt. Life will never be exactly as it was, but it can be transformed.

Take heart

As I think about those I should forgive, this prayer can be helpful: “Lord, do this with me; do this in me; do this through me.” Daily, as I forgive the driver who cuts in front of me during the morning rush hour, or the clerk who ignores me, or the neighbor’s child who tramples my flowerbed, I experience peace—and I could even be preparing myself for one day being able to forgive the thief who steals my car, or the drunk driver who injures a loved one.

I may rightly desire justice in these cases, but if I find myself wanting it for the betterment of the persons involved rather than vengeance, I will be on my way to making God’s kingdom present among us.

My mother’s aunts could have had fuller lives if the Church’s tradition on forgiveness had been more available to them. Today, let us pray and decide that the gift of faith we have received from that same tradition will grow to full consciousness within us.

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