Prayer of the Day

First Week of Lent – Family Fast Day

February 19th, 2016

Jesus did more than talk about forgiveness; he lived it. At the end of his life he offered an amazing petition amid his final agony: “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23 : 34)  After his resurrection Jesus asked Peter if he loved him three times.  He didn’t say, “Peter, I forgive you, but I don’t trust you.” He didn’t remind Peter of how deeply he was wounded when he overheard Peter taking an oath that he didn’t even know him. Jesus didn’t withdraw his intimacy; instead he embraced Peter with his love and total forgiveness.  Jesus’ forgiveness was the flaming coal that burned away Peter’s guilt bringing the inner healing he desperately needed  We must forgive others and ourselves the way Jesus forgives.