ISRAEL’S INFIDELITY AND GOD’S FORGIVENESS: FRIDAY, 12TH AUGUST 2022, WEEK 19, YEAR II
EZEKIEL 16:1-15, 60, 63; RESP: ISAIAH 12; MATTHEW 19:3-12
In the First Reading of today, we have a vivid description of Israel as an unfaithful spouse. The Lord reminds Israel how He cared for her, looked after her, nurtured her and gave her attention. Israel became so beautiful, healthy, distinguished and attractive and what did she do? She became unfaithful to God and followed idols.
God was dishonoured by Israel’s unfaithfulness, however, and this is the main message of today, God said He would remember His covenant with Israel and He would have mercy on her and accept her back.
How many spouses would know that their partner, whom they have loved and laboured for so much, was cheating on them and would still be willing to forgive and accept them with love?
The message of today reinforces the Gospel of yesterday on forgiveness. If God has asked us to forgive innumerable times, it means He is willing to do the same for us, no matter our infidelity.
The Gospel of today touches on the dignity, sanctity and indissolubility of marriage. One of the important requirements for the continuity and preservation of marriage is forgiveness. Forgiveness is at the heart of preserving any human relationship. When things go sour between two friends or a couple, they must be willing to communicate, forgive and grow from it. 1 Corinthians 13:6 says “Love doesn’t brood over wrongdoing.”
We have some people who can be so nice, loving and friendly but they quickly fall out with people and can’t get along with them for too long because once you offend them, that’s the end of their love, kindness and friendship.
Let us learn therefore from the readings of today how patient and forgiving God is and not give up on ourselves when we act unfaithfully towards Him. Let us also pray for the grace to be willing to imitate and reflect His forgiveness in our dealings with others.