Some people think forgiveness means being nice to those who have offended us. Forgiveness, however, is much more than that. It means actively showing love and mercy to those who have mistreated us. Forgiveness is given before our offenders apologize, and even if they never apologize or stop mistreating us. Forgiveness is expressed affectionately. The father of the prodigal son "ran out to meet him, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed him" (Lk 15:20). Forgiveness means honoring our offenders by giving them special gifts and throwing a party in their honor (Lk 15:22-23). Forgiveness is extending mercy, treating those who have mistreated us much better than they deserve.

Forgiveness by God's standards is impossible by human power. "To err is human, to forgive is divine." Because we're not divine, we can't do it. However, Jesus is divine. He can forgive, and we can let it be done unto us according to His word (Lk 1:38). In Jesus, we can forgive everyone who has ever hurt us; we can be like the father of the prodigal son. We can forgive by God's standards (Col 3:13). We can receive the miracle of forgiveness, go forth as ministers of reconciliation (2 Cor 5:18), and transform an unforgiving and merciless world into the image and likeness of Christ.

Rescript:  †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 26, 2009

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