Sunday, September 13, 2020 - 24th week of Ordinary Time - Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 18, 21-35 - I give you a new commandment, says the Lord: "Love one another, as I have loved you".

"When my brother does wrong against me, how often must I forgive him?" This is a question that must be asked every day in the society that St. Peter addressed to Jesus, in order to fulfill the commandment of love that He left. Forgiveness, which is linked to mercy, is the basis of such love. Often, however, the first thought that comes to mind when someone has wronged us is to seek revenge, as the servant mentioned in the Gospel did. Thus, just as Christ taught Peter, the Church teaches us to bring peace to the community through compassion and forgiveness.

The second part of the prayer that Christ taught the apostles, and that He also taught us, emphasizes forgiveness: "Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Christ favors mercy, not vengeance; He gave the example of compassion, not anger, so His disciples, like Peter, are required to forgive up to seventy times seven, that is, "to be capable of unconditional mercy". Thus, although it may be difficult to do, being merciful is an effort and a virtue of Christians to ensure happiness and peace already on earth.