Forgiveness

Matthew 22:35-6 – And one of them, a lawyer, tempted him, asking, “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?”

Traditionally, there are 613 commandments in the law. This lawyer asking which of these is the greatest implies that there is a hierarchy of laws and, thus, a hierarchy of sins. The Roman Catholic Church recognizes this in its categories of mortal and venial sins. Most of the sins we commit, whether through commission or omission, are venial; they do not kill our soul. In the American penal code, we also have a hierarchy of laws and corresponding punishments. We recognize that jaywalking is less a harm to society than murder.

Where we might differ, then, is which specific law should rank the highest. Some people might say napping in a common area at Yale is worthy of calling the police over; it's not even illegal. Some people seem to think that being in the US without documents is a crime. It is not. It is merely a misdemeanor. Many people believe this, because 45 and his administration want us to believe it. They want us to believe what they say without question. During Bush II’s administration, it was portrayed as unpatriotic to question his decisions. This is the position the lawyer is trying to put Jesus in; trying to get him to speak against what the Pharisees, Sadducees, chief priests, and elders have ruled. Of course, for them patriotism has nothing to do with it. It is a religious test – a religious doctrine (thought) test at that.

Today I want to reflect on this hierarchy of sins. Even Jesus said there was only one unpardonable sin – blaspheming against the Spirit. We don’t know what that means though. That there is only one unpardonable sin gives me comfort, because it implies that God is a forgiving God. When we acknowledge the hurt we have caused others, apologize to them, make appropriate amends, and strive to do better, we feel God’s forgiveness. Whether the person we harmed forgives us or not. Forgiveness is a great gift that cleanses us to move on from the shame or guilt we may feel and to live as fully as God wishes.

Paul reminds us in Romans that “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” Let us not use this to excuse ourselves and others from bad behavior. Only by reconciling with each other can we reconcile ourselves to God.

Who do I need to reconcile with today? Am I ready? What do I need to get ready?