Forgiveness is often hardest when the hurt comes from those closest to us, especially when we feel they “knew what they were doing.” Yet today’s Scriptures remind us that sin deceives, and many act out of ignorance, fear, or woundedness, just as St. Paul once did before his conversion. Our own judgments, shaped by past hurts and limited understanding, are often faulty. 

Only God sees the heart and knows the full truth. 

That is why Jesus calls us to compassion: to withhold condemnation, to surrender judgment to God, and to choose forgiveness. True freedom comes not from clinging to resentment, but from allowing God’s mercy to shape our vision, so that we may see others, and ourselves, through His eyes.

Reflection Question:When I struggle to forgive someone, am I willing to let go of my own judgment and entrust the person and myself, to God’s merciful judgment?