A Comment On Forgiveness
Author: Sharon Obrigewitch. Townsend Resident
Dear Editor:
Last week, many of us went to Bob Masolo’s funeral. The church was packed. Republicans, Democrats, Catholics, Protestants and non-believers - we were all together peacefully. Then came the time in the part of the mass where we say the Lord’s Prayer. This prayer that Jesus gave us.
When we began, many of us joined. If you stopped to listen, the church was ringing out with the voices of all of us. Afterwards, I thought about how many people really listened to what they were saying, because it is powerful. First, there is no “I” or “us.” "Our" means He is Father to us all. Next comes the line that we should think about more. “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Now, what does that mean? To me, it means if somebody hurts me, I do not get even; I forgive them. How many of us say that prayer and do not think of the words that we are saying? We say it by rote. All of us at one time have been hurt by someone and have hurt others.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if everyone would follow those words? At my age I find it hard to be mad or try to get even. It’s easier to say, “God, I’m tired- you take care of it.” Jesus made the Pharisees mad and they crucified Him. And He forgave them.
Sharon Obrigewitch
Townsend
