FORGIVE ENDLESSLY
Jesus tells us of a unique story about forgiveness that must be without limits. Jesus makes a calculation of the number seven that in the biblical language equals perfection. History speaks for itself since the listener cannot help but reject the petty attitude of the forgiven servant who is not able to forgive those who have committed a minor offense. Jesus teaches the disciples the magnanimity of forgiveness even if failures are great. For Matthew, it is important that the Christian community distinguish between reconciliation and forgiveness. While in various contexts, forgiveness and reconciliation may be synonymous, perhaps it can help us distinguish its nature. Reconciliation and fraternal correction, which we discussed last week, requires two people. Similar to tango, which requires two people to dance, two people are also needed to achieve reconciliation. Those willing to reconcile themselves must be willing to enter into dialogue and ultimately put a halt to their differences. Forgiveness on the other hand implies that every believer is prepared to say yes to everything love forgives. Forgiveness for the believer is a way to imitate our Heavenly Father who is always merciful. True Christian community of believers can be built. We don't need not only come to church but reconcile with each other and be willing to forgive endlessly; that is,
"Seventy times seven".
Pope Francis invited forgiveness and reconciliation in Colombia with these words: "Violence begets more violence, the hate more hate, and death more death." “We need to break that chain that is presented as inevitable, and that is only possible with the forgiveness and reconciliation."
 
 
Fr. Hernán, S.J.