Tuesday of the First Week of Lent
(Isaiah 55:10-11; Matthew 6:7-15)
In the Old Testament the ear takes precedence over the
eye. God frequently talks to His people
at least through the prophets. But only
once does He show himself in full theophany.
In today’s first reading God Himself emphasizes the efficacy of His
word. He says that it always achieves
His purpose.
The gospel makes the word of God Jesus’ disciples’ own
word. Jesus, God incarnate, teaches his
followers how to pray with an emphasis on forgiveness. The Father will forgive those who forgive the
offenses of others.
Forgiveness requires humility. When we forgive, we give up the claims we
have against our offenders. Our pride can
keep this from happening. However, hearing
Jesus’ guarantee of our own forgiveness, we cannot afford not to forgive.
