How Forgiveness Can Be Easier: Lent 2026 Day 18 Reflection

Today I will reflect on how Resentments; Forgiveness; and Compassion are all tied together

Welcome to Day 18 of Lent 2026 today is Monday March 10, 2026. Today's Gospel reading and Encounter with Jesus is Matthew 18:21-35 

Scroll down to find the Gospel reading: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/031026.cfm

In today’s Gospel reading is that familiar story where Jesus responds to Peters question about forgiveness. He asks Jesus if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? Jesus responds, “not seven times, but seventy-seven times”

What is your first reaction when you hear this?  

What happens when we don't forgive someone? Resentments

Compassion towards the other and their suffering helps me to have a heart of forgiveness.

Them doing me wrong, is not about me personally. When I have compassion for the person who has harmed me, I begin to see that what they have done to me is a result of something that needs healing in them. When I have compassion for the person who has harmed me, it helps me to see that this isn't about me.

Now, I am not saying that Forgiveness is easy for everything. I have been hurt in significant ways by others, and yes it has taken me some time to work on Forgiveness. The way I work on it is with Compassion. Compassion has help bring more peace to my heart.

Remember, the other scripture passages on Mercy - Be Merciful like your Father is Merciful.

So again, another great reflection for Lent: Who in your life do you need to have more compassion for so that your heart is more at peace and less about resentments

Let us pray

Tomorrow is the Day 19  of Lent  if you would like to take a look ahead. https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/031126.cfm

The Return of the Prodigal Son book  https://amzn.to/4de8Yps

Recommended Commentary

Matthew  https://amzn.to/40oIHx5

Mark https://amzn.to/4sv08sb

Luke https://amzn.to/4rIiG8i

John https://amzn.to/3OAYk1Z

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

https://amzn.to/3MPFEec

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