Lent is a sacred season to honestly stand before God and confess, like the prophet Daniel, “We have sinned, been wicked, and done evil” (Dn 9:5). It is also a time to seek compassion and forgiveness and, in turn, to demonstrate these qualities to others. “Be merciful as your Father is merciful” (Lk 6:36). Which is more difficult for us, to seek forgiveness or to forgive others?
Forgiving small hurts may seem manageable, like a harsh word from a spouse, an embarrassing moment at work, or a misunderstanding among friends. But what about deeper wounds?
“Stop judging… stop condemning… forgive and you will be forgiven” (Lk 6:37). These words feel counterintuitive in a world driven by retaliation and fear. But spiritually, we know the truth: we all miss the mark. We all depend daily on forgiveness. And God never withholds it. Divine love always precedes our efforts; it is the source from which our mercy flows. The mercy we receive is universal, constant, and unconditional. If we are created in God’s likeness, then such mercy is deeply rooted within us to be shown to others as well.
The message of the readings today, then, is this revelation: we are loved beyond measure. From that overflowing love, we are empowered to love and forgive beyond what seems humanly possible. To be merciful as the Father is merciful is our challenge, our calling, and our hope—not just for today or during Lent, but to be practiced every day.
Rev. Elvin Cardoso, SJ
I am a Jesuit priest from Goa, India’s tiny but beautiful state. I studied in a Jesuit school that was from where I got my vocation. I was ordained in 2016. I am currently pursuing a degree in the Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership at Creighton University.
I am truly grateful for this opportunity to share and express my faith while simultaneously enhancing and nurturing my prayer life.
