Day 3: Holy Spirit – Grace to forgive 

Luke 11:4 and forgive us our sins for we ourselves forgive everyone in debt to us, and do not subject us to the final test.

Children of God are called to forgive offenses. As we journey in this life, we encounter various situations, relationships and circumstances. Inspite of our best interest, conflicts may still arise. The way we handle them is most important. As a child of God, we are called to forgive small and big offenses all alike. God asks us to forgive and pray for our enemies as well. Let us ask God for the grace to pray and forgive as we should. Jesus, Himself forgave those who crucified Him. From the cross He cried out, “Father, forgive them ..”

Luke 23:24 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.” They divided his garments by casting lots.

Young Maria Goretti a 12 year old girl, is a great example of forgiveness and virtue of purity. Maria was stabbed 14 times by her murderer Alessandro Serenelli (20 year old young man) when she resisted his sexual assaults.

On Maria’s deathbed, her words were “I forgive him, and I want him with me in heaven!” 

She died the very next day.  One day, when Alessandro was in prison, he had a dream of Maria with 14 lilies, one for each stab. This initiated the conversion of Alessandro Serenelli. Alessandro after finishing his sentence in prison, first met Assunta (Maria’s mother) to ask her forgiveness. Assunta forgave her daughter’s murderer. Alessandro then joined the Capuchin friars as a brother and there worked as a gardener and handy man.

Do I need to forgive someone or my ownself? Bring them to the Lord in prayer and place them at the foot of the cross of Jesus Christ. 

Prayer: Abba Father, I find it hard to forgive and let it go. Abba, I know I don't have to do it on my own. Abba, with Your help and Your strength, I make a decision and choose to forgive (this person or these people). I forgive all who have offended me. I pray that You bless them. Abba, I also pray for those I may have offended along the way. Lord, I breathe in Your love and forgiveness and breathe out Your love and forgiveness. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen. 

 I forgive everyone as my heavenly Father forgives me. (based on Luke 11:4)

Other Scriptures: 

Ephesians 1:7 Fulfillment Through Christ. In him we have redemption by his blood, the forgiveness of transgressions, in accord with the riches of his grace

• Litany of the Holy Spirit
• 500 Praises to the Holy Spirit (Pray a few of them as you can)

Contributed by: Quadros family – HFK Parish, RIC4