Would I describe myself as a forgiving person? 

Reading: So watch yourselves. “If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” Luke 17:3-4. 

Good morning, Happy Monday, and many blessings my dear family.
 
Today’s Gospel (Luke 17:1-6) begins with Jesus again teaching his disciples. He tells his disciples that it is inevitable that sin will occur. However, he warns the disciples not to do anything that would cause scandal to another person or tempt an individual to sin. To Jesus, this is one of the worst things we can do.

Jesus tells us that despite our efforts to lead a good life, we are sure to stumble. He understands this and hence his lovely gift of Reconciliation. But he warns us of the great damage we do if we are responsible for causing others to stumble. Our being together should be for our mutual support and not for causing others to be led astray. Be grateful for all those who, through God's grace, helped us live our faith in the shadow of Jesus.

Three times Jesus picked himself up and continued the Way of the Cross. Can I come to terms with my own stumbling ways? If I can, then maybe there will be a little more compassion in my heart for my equally fragile neighbor. Realizing our own weakness and realizing too how the Lord is so considerate towards us, helps us to be more Christ-like when we need to forgive others.

Jesus reminds us to be aware of our words, attitudes, and actions. Today I have the potential to be a positive influence or a negative influence on others. What will I choose? The fact that we have failed ourselves and failed others does not excuse us from a continual effort to forgive and love. We must never forget that that process starts with ourselves.
 
Jesus allows for our personal failings, but warns against causing difficulties to others. I consider how I give good example, am considerate and loving. I ask God’s help to be neither proud nor careless. Jesus tells his disciples to be on their guard. They need to be mindful of what they do as well as what they say. Our words and actions will have a positive impact or a negative impact on others. Jesus is reminding us to be conscious and aware of our words, our attitudes, and our actions. Today we have the potential to be a positive influence or a negative influence! What will be our choice?

Would I describe myself as a forgiving person? Do I know what hinders me from being able to forgive; to forgive myself; to forgive others? Is there someone in particular who comes to mind? Bring all this to Jesus. What grace/ blessing do I want to ask Jesus for in this matter of forgiveness?

Blessings,
 
Luis+