11 December. The Power of Forgiveness. Michael said, “You know what, when we did training for marriage preparation I was quite challenged by the idea that couples through their Sacrament have the grace of forgiveness.  It’s not quite the same as God’s taking away our sins, but after I had that affair and you found out I felt terrible, so guilty I just wanted to crawl into a hole. When after some time and some counselling you said, “I forgive you, and would like to start over it felt like being healed and reborn. I was over the moon to be able to pick up my bed and come back home to you.    I can’t say thank you often enough for that.”  Their intimate smile to each other spoke volumes.  

Scripture:  Jesus said, “Why do you question? What is easier to say, “Your sins are forgiven you, or to say, Rise and walk?” But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins, he said to the man who was paralysed, “Rise up, take up your bed and go home.” Luke 5:17-26.  Pope Francis:    Couples should be  helped to realise that surmounting a crisis need not weaken their relationship; instead it can improve, settle and mature the wine of their union.AL 232  In resolving to forgive the other, each has to ask quietly and humbly if he or she has not somehow created the conditions that led to the other’s mistakes. AL 236.  Reflect, share, and pray:  Pray for openness to growth and willingness to be forgiving.    e