There used to be a sign in the Princeton University Book Store basement which said: "Love your enemies—it will drive them crazy."
Clever but love of enemies and forgiving, commanded by Jesus in our Gospel this Sunday, is not hoping that the other person will change or trying to be morally superior.
Then, what about unconditional forgiveness without any repentance from the wrong doer?
No, because that contradicts the declaration of forgiveness.
Instead, forgiveness IS a conditional gift offered that opens a relational space that expects a reciprocal response.
e.g. Jesus’ forgiveness from the Cross opens up a relational space in the least conceivable place.
It demands a response of acceptance or rejection.
--If accepted , it creates a new identity and so the Good Thief became a companion of Jesus who entered paradise even before the final resurrection, and being forgiven of a mortal sin in confession creates a new identity (as it were) so the person is back in the state of sanctifying grace.
--When refused, the offer of relationship turns into punishment by one’s self-exclusion.
1) It just takes one to offer forgiveness.
2) It takes two for reconciliation or the new identity.
Your offering of forgiveness protects you from resentments.
The Catechism says--To receive [God’s] mercy, we must admit our faults, but that…
contrition occupies the first place, which is sorrow of the soul and detesting the sin committed, with the resolution not to sin again.
For this week—Like King David, pray for a deeper contrition, for a contrite heart that understands and recognizes the destructive nature of sin, and makes restitution when able, or when not able, by making spiritual amends by prayer and penance.
And, when you are wrong, promptly admit it. It won’t drive you crazy.
It is one of the most liberating behaviors one can adopt.
Amen.
