The Third Tuesday of Lent

That is why the Kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the accounting, a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount. Since he had no way of paying it back, his master ordered him to be sold, along with his wife, his children, and all his property, in payment of the debt. At that, the servant fell down, did him homage, and said, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.’ Moved with compassion the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan.

The Heavenly King is always showing us His compassion. He forgives our sins and imperfections when we seek reconciliation with Him. He pardons our failings, great and small. However, if we are not truly contrite, do not do our penance, or are cruel in our dealings with others, then He will hand us over to the torments of Hell. He expects us to treat others as He treats us, with mercy. This is why it’s so important to have forgiving hearts, especially in regard to those who try our patience and impose on us the most. Whenever we are tempted to anger by someone’s actions, we should remember we too are sinners and find a way to forgive the person who harmed us.

Do we seek forgiveness with contrite hearts? How do we treat others, especially those who harm us in some way? What can we do to cultivate spirits of compassion?

O Lord, help us to be patient with others and forgiving of their faults.

Amen.