The Power of Forgiveness

Today's homily was pretty insightful. Father John Francis gave two different ones for 10 am and noon mass. For 10 am mass, he talked about being able to hear God's voice when things are going good in our lives but when things are going bad, we tend to be so absorbed in what we're dealing with that we don't stop to listen. I guess that's true. It's hard to just stop and try to listen to what God wants to tell us when we're always complaining about the things that are going on in our lives. I've made it an effort every night to do ACTS. ACTS is a set of prayers you can do every time you want to pray. A stands for Adoration. That's when you praise and adore God. C stands for Contrition. That's when you say sorry for your sins. T is Thanks giving. That's a chance for you to thank God for everything, good or bad. S is Supplication. Supplication is when you offer up your intentions.

ACTS gives you a chance to be appreciative of everything around, even if it's not something good. It's a chance for you to listen to God and to ask Him what He wants for your life. Sometimes when we're angry or frustrated about something, we complain. It's natural. I do it all the time. Even though it's hard sometimes to just let your guard down, humble yourself to really understand the people around you, it feels so good when you can just be vulnerable and let God walk with you through it.

I'm short tempered at times and stubborn, but this Lenten season has been teaching me a lot. It really isn't about giving up anything. For me personally, it's about mending broken friendships, helping those in need, praying for those I can't actively help, forgiving and being patient. I really need to work on being patient and not letting my anger get the best of me. eek.

Forgiving can be hard sometimes too. Especially when you've been hurt by someone so much. I guess, love makes you do silly things...including forgiving people who hurt you. ;] I'm just kidding. That's not silly. Crazy...maybe.

Okay, I should get back to studying. Let's add that to the list. =]

Peace!