Welcome to St. Therese Catholic Church

                                   May 24, 2026, The Pentecost Sunday of Easter 

                                               Reflection on the Lord’s Prayer:

“Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” (3)

We continue our reflection on the fifth petition of the Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” We note that this petition has two parts. In the first part, we pray for forgiveness for our personal sins, as well as for the sins of others—especially those within our own families—and indeed for the sins of the whole world. In our previous reflection, we considered the purpose of this petition. Jesus commands us to pray for forgiveness because sin continually damages our true identity, our holiness, and our relationship with God and with others (cf. Isaiah 59:2; Romans 3:23). Hence, there is a constant need for forgiveness. If we did not need forgiveness, Jesus would not have taught us to pray in this way. Let us now consider the second part of this petition: “as we forgive those who trespass against us.” This part teaches four important lessons:

1. Forgiveness is the high point of Christian life. Every human being needs not only God’s forgiveness but also the forgiveness of others. Forgiveness is essential for genuine love. When we forgive, we demonstrate that love is stronger than sin (cf. 1 Peter 4:8; Colossians 3:13).

2. Forgiveness is a fundamental condition for reconciliation, true worship, and genuine relationships. Jesus emphasizes this in His teaching: “So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there… first be reconciled to your brother” (Matthew 5:23–24). God sent His Son into the world to forgive sins and reconcile us to Himself (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:18–19). Therefore, authentic worship must be accompanied by reconciliation with others.

3. Forgiveness has no limit. Jesus teaches us to forgive without measure (cf. Matthew 18:21–22). Why then does He include the condition, “as we forgive others”? This “as” reminds us that we must forgive others in the same way God forgives us—freely and without limit. This truth is illustrated in the parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:23–35), who, though forgiven a great debt, refused to forgive a much smaller one. The lesson is clear: those who receive mercy must extend mercy. If all people forgave as God forgives, the world would reflect the peace of heaven.

4. Forgiveness transforms hurt into intercession. Jesus calls us not to harbor revenge, hatred, or retaliation, but to live in peace and unity (cf. Romans 12:17–21). True peace and reconciliation are possible only through forgiveness. Even on the cross, Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34), showing that forgiveness can transform suffering into prayer for others. Therefore, when we pray this petition, let us not only ask forgiveness for our personal sins but also intercede for the sins of the whole world (cf. 1 John 2:2). Let us also actively promote peace and reconciliation within our families and communities, becoming instruments of God’s mercy (cf. Matthew 5:9).  —Fr. Jesu.