We always begin Mass with what is known as the Penitential Rite. In this rite, we ask forgiveness for our sins.
As we do so, we should ask for the grace to forgive those who have sinned against us.
Today’s Gospel (Mt 18:21–35) has St Peter asking a question. The text reads: ‘Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive? As many as seven times?”‘ (18:21)
My first thought is: ‘If Peter needs to ask the question, he is not ready to forgive at all!’
A former inmate of a Nazi concentration camp was visiting a friend who had endured the same ordeal.
‘Have you forgiven the Nazis?’ he asked his friend.
‘Yes,’ came the reply.
‘Well, I haven’t. I am still consumed with hatred for them.’
‘In that case,’ said his friend gently, ‘they still have you in prison.’