Friday March 15

Matthew 5: 43-48

Wanda Fingalson

Jesus says, "Love your enemies, bless those who curse you."    

Years ago, a co-worker and I had a major disagreement.  She expected me to do something unreasonable that was her responsibility.  It would have imposed on me and my work schedule. I was so upset with her!

News travels fast.  Soon, other co-workers came to me, wanting to know  all the details. I chose not to tell them anything, because I knew that would make things worse.

I knew the one person I did need to talk to was the co-worker that I had the disagreement with.  When I walked into her office, she would not even look at me. Even so, I sat down across from her.  We talked, and finally reached a satisfactory compromise.

Although we had hashed things out, afterwards, I found myself unable to forgive her.  When I prayed and tried to, the resentment I felt toward her would always resurface. Then, I started saying a different prayer.  "The Christ in me forgive her, because the Wanda in me can't." It took a while, but only when I started saying that prayer, did I feel my resentment slipping away, until it finally disappeared.  We are now friends!

Questions for reflection:

• Is there someone that you need to forgive today?

• What will you gain by loving your enemies?

Prayer:

Lord, help us love others when we are unable to do it ourselves. Amen.