Forgive your neighbor’s injustice; then when you pray, your own sins will be forgiven. (From Sirach 27:30-28:7)

We’re all really good at identifying the faults and sins of others.  We’re all fantastic at holding onto grudges and remembering the wrongs others have done to us from years ago.  But, we’re not so great at mercy and letting go of the anger and pain that comes with rivalry, competition, disagreements, and disputes.  The LORD speaks to us through Sirach today and we need to hear this message!  If we want to be forgiven, we better forgive others!  Jesus tells us this when he teaches us to pray, “forgive us our trespasses AS WE FORGIVE those who trespass against us.”  If we want mercy, if we want a second chance, if we want to move forward in the faith and into Heaven, we better offer mercy and second chances to others as well!  Forgive!  Let go of the past!  Move forward with peace and love in your hearts, my sisters and brothers in Christ!  Only then will we receive that same mercy from our Father in Heaven!  Amen!