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Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Keys to Unity

Background Music: Panalangin by Mark Anthony Cuevas
    Voiced by: Shirly Benedictos

August 14, Wednesday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Memorial of Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Priest and Martyr
Daily Readings: Ezekiel 9:1-7; 10:18-22; Matthew 18:15-20


After teaching humility, Jesus instructs His disciples on forgiveness and reconciliation. He explains how to address someone who sins against us: first, confront them privately; if that fails, involve two or three witnesses; and if necessary, bring the matter to the entire church. 

If the person still refuses to listen, treat them as an outsider. Jesus underscores the importance of building strong relationships and maintaining unity in the community.

Unforgiveness can lead to spiritual hardness and separation from God. Forgiveness is not only a duty towards others but also towards ourselves, freeing us from bitterness, anger, hurt, and resentment.
 
Though it is a gradual and challenging process, forgiveness brings healing and strengthens relationships.

Reconciliation involves rebuilding relationships and restoring trust after wrongdoing. It requires communication, empathy, understanding, and a willingness to listen, learn, and grow. Forgiveness and letting go of grudges are essential for true reconciliation.

Call to Action for Catholic Living: Jesus prayed, “Father, that they may be one.” Gathering in the name of Christ, let us seek reconciliation and forgive others to create peace, and unity, and rebuild relationships. Amen.
 

 

Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.”  Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.