We're living in a wonderful world full of technology and great advancements. Through technology we can speak instantly to those clear on the other side of the world. We can travel faster then ever in the history of the world. With modern technology, the world, indeed, is a smaller place.
Yet, how much have we advanced in the love and forgiveness of those around us? The scripture readings for today show us that things haven't really changed all that much since agent times. In our first reading from Sirach, we read that "War and anger are hateful things, yet the sinners hugs them tight." (Sirach 27:30) It seams that in our day and age, whether here in the United States or around the world, we see acts of war and anger. People hugging tight to anger and hatred. Sirach goes on to tell us, "Think of the commandments, hate not your neighbor..." (Sirach 28:7) With all the strife we see in recent times, we need to be reminded to "hate not your neighbor."
In the gospel for today, our Lord gives Peter and us a great challenge. Peter asks how often must I forgive my brothers sins against me? Seven times? Jesus' response is clear, "I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times." (Matthew 18:22) Then Jesus tells of the servant receiving forgiveness of his debts from his master, yet is unwilling to show the same mercy to a fellow servant who owes him a great deal less.
We all turn to God to seek forgiveness for all our sins and wrongdoings. We also hope and pray that those we have hurt are willing to forgive us as God is willing to forgive us. Sometimes these hurts can go back a long way with our family or with friends. There may be people we haven't spoken to in years because of a long ago hurt. We need to move beyond the hurt and reach out to forgive and to ask for forgiveness.
Jesus is calling us to forgive our brothers and sisters from the heart. When we are truly reconciled and forgiving to each other, then we can find that peace that can only come from God.
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