Forgiveness Sunday - Dr. Jeannie Constantinou - March 6, 2022

Today, on Forgiveness Sunday, the Gospel comes to us from Matthew 6:14-21. The Lord said, "If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." Our guest speaker, Dr. Jeannie Constantinou, reflects on today's Gospel and theme. She asks the question, "Is there anything worth going to hell for?" Forgiving others can be difficult because of pride. The world would lead us to believe that others must ask for forgiveness before being forgiven. Unforgiveness is harmful and has power over our lives. Orthodox Christians must take the words of Our Lord seriously, knowing that to forgive others is to imitate Him. Forgiveness is possible if we sincerely pray for those who have hurt us and we trust in the Grace of God.