ALWAYS FORGIVE
Matthew is concerned about correcting the conflicts, disputes and confrontations that can arise in the community of Jesus’ followers. Probably he is writing his Gospel at a time when, as is said in his Gospel, «love in most people is growing cold» (Mt 24,12).
That’s why he makes concrete with much detail how we have to act in order to remove the evil from within the community, always respecting the people, seeking above all to «give correction with him alone», coming to dialogue with «witnesses», making «the community» intervene, or separating yourselves from whoever can cause damage to Jesus’ followers.
All that can be necessary, but how should the offended person act concretely? What should Jesus’ disciples do who want to follow his footsteps and work together with him to open paths to God’s reign, the reign of mercy and justice for everyone?
Matthew couldn’t forget some of Jesus’ words gathered by a Gospel before his own. They weren’t easy to understand, but they reflected what was in Jesus’ heart. Although 20 centuries have passed, we his followers mustn’t water down their content.
Peter comes up to Jesus. As on other occasions, he represents the group of followers: «How often must I forgive my brother if he wrongs me? As often as seven times?». His question isn’t stingy, but enormously generous. He has heard from Jesus the parables about God’s mercy. He knows his capability of understanding, excusing and forgiving. He’s also ready to forgive «many times», but isn’t there a limit?
Jesus’ answer is blunt: «Not seven, I tell you, but seventy-seven times» – you must always forgive, at all times, unconditionally. Throughout the centuries we have lowered what Jesus said in many ways: «forgiving always, is harmful»; «it gives incentives to the offender»; «you must first demand repentance». All this seems very reasonable, but hides and disfigures what Jesus thought and lived.
We must return to him. In his Church there are lacking men and women who are ready to forgive as he did, introducing his gesture of forgiveness among us in all his gratitude and greatness. It’s what best makes Jesus’ face shine in the Church.
José Antonio Pagola
Translator: Fr. Jay VonHandorf
