Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5: 7

Jesus said, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”  Matthew 5:44

When we pray for our enemies and when we forgive them, we are fighting the “good fight” attacking and destroying evil with merciful acts of kindness.

I read this victim impact statement in the newspaper. It is written by a young girl of 13 years old who was raped 4 times at the age of 10.  She read these words in court:

“Saying sorry is always hard. But forgiving is harder. Jesus had people who betrayed him, tortured him, defied him, hurt him and in the end — killed him.  But he always forgave them, each and every one of them.  I am going to take an example from Jesus and forgive Kevin (the rapist) for what he has done to me…I will forgive him for all the trauma and hurt…and the changes this has done to me.”

I have uncovered in my own life that forgiveness is the pathway to freedom; it is the opportunity to show Jesus that we are truly His people and that we will give the great gift that He gives us, the gift of mercy. This is a giant mountain to climb but we don’t climb it alone. In fact, I am convinced that Jesus carries us. May God help you to forgive and be merciful! Perhaps this very day you could say a prayer for someone who has hurt you.  “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5: 7

Peace be with you!