Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.--Psalm 103:10
Mass readings: Daniel 9:4-10 / Luke 6:36-38
St. Frances of Rome (1384-1440) is a wonderful example of living out today's Gospel: ''Give and it will be given you.'' Married at an early age, she led a life of great devotion and penance, patiently bearing the distresses life sent her, and, it's said, she managed during 40 years of marriage never to annoy her husband. Surely she had taken the Gospel message to heart!
Unfortunately, I often fall short in this department. I forget these words of the Our Father: ''forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.'' I overlook the command to give if I wish to receive. I tend to expect compassion and understanding rather than bestowing them on others. In short, I have a lot to learn if I want to deserve the ''full measure'' of God's rewards.
Prayer: Lord, show me how to give without measure that I may receive without measure.