Day 5 · Lent: A Return to God
Mercy Received, Mercy Given
“"For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you don't forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."”Matthew 6:14-15
Reflection
Lent turns us toward God, and it also turns us toward one another. The mercy we receive is not meant to stay locked inside us but to flow outward, even toward those who have hurt us. Forgiveness can be slow and difficult work, and God is patient with us as we let his grace begin to soften the grudges we carry.
A prayer
Merciful God, you have forgiven me more than I can measure, and I am grateful. Soften my heart toward those who have wronged me, even when the hurt still lingers. I cannot force forgiveness, so I ask you to begin it in me and to give me time and grace to grow. Let the mercy I have received become mercy I can offer. Amen.
Carry this with you
Is there someone I am holding a grudge against, and could I take one honest step toward releasing it to God?