St. Peter once asked Our Lord how many times he must forgive an offender. Jesus answered that if necessary, he must forgive "seventy times seven" (Matthew 18:22). According to Maria, Jesus embodied His teaching perfectly and was an example passed to his disciples. When He called out to God to pardon His tormentors and murderers, He was passing such a test, answering with a resounding Yes! The question may still linger for us. Is such costly forgiveness truly possible?

Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." And they cast lots to divide His garments. And the people stood by, watching; but the rulers scoffed at Him, saying, "He saved others; let Him save Himself, if He is the Christ of God, His Chosen One!" The soldiers also mocked Him, coming up and offering Him vinegar, and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save Yourself!" - Luke 23:34-37

With excerpts from:

• The Dolorous Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ by Bl. Anne Catherine Emmerich (https://bit.ly/3kaeP6l)
• The Mystical City of God by Ven. Mary of Agreda (https://bit.ly/3IhySaO)

GET THE BOOK - The Passion: Reflections on the Suffering and Death of Jesus Christ by Paul Thigpen (https://bit.ly/3IiSNpM)