Then Peter approaching asked Jesus, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times” (Matthew 18:21-22).

Forgiving others seventy-seven times is way of saying that follows of Jesus practice mercy that is limitless.

Why does Jesus establish this mercy standard? Why must we practice mercy that is limitless?

Because that is precisely what we ask of God the Father for ourselves.

The forgiving standard Jesus sets as the Christian norm, repudiates a natural thirst for vengeance we feel when we are offended and hurt. It further makes possible the non-violent solution to the endless cycle of violence and vengeance that is fueled when people stubbornly clutch their own anger.

The pathway to peace in the world and healing in our hearts, is practicing forgiveness.

If we are to live as peacemakers and experience tranquility in our hearts, we cannot stubbornly clutch our anger, excusing grudges and harboring resentments.

Intentional disciples and communities of intentional disciples – healthy and holy parishes – extend mercy to others in order that we may receive it ourselves.