Today’s Gospel Luke 17:1-6
Jesus said to his disciples,
“Things that cause sin will inevitably occur,
but woe to the one through whom they occur.
It would be better for him if a millstone were put around his neck
and he be thrown into the sea
than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin.
Be on your guard!
If your brother sins, rebuke him;
and if he repents, forgive him.
And if he wrongs you seven times in one day
and returns to you seven times saying, ‘I am sorry,’
you should forgive him.”
And the Apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.”
The Lord replied, “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed,
you would say to this mulberry tree,
‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.”
Today’s Gospel Reflection
In today’s Gospel from Luke 17:1-6, Jesus speaks directly to His disciples about the seriousness of sin and the boundless call to forgiveness. He warns that causing others, especially the innocent, to stumble is a grave matter, likening it to a fate worse than drowning with a millstone around one’s neck.
Yet, in this stern teaching, there is a path to redemption: we are urged to rebuke sin gently and to forgive repeatedly, even seven times in a single day if repentance follows.
This radical forgiveness mirrors God’s mercy toward us. The apostles, feeling the weight of this command, plead, ‘Increase our faith.’ Jesus responds with encouragement, assuring them that faith as small as a mustard seed holds immense power, capable of uprooting a mulberry tree and planting it in the sea.
What a profound reminder that even our tiniest trust in God can accomplish the impossible.
The key teaching here is twofold: vigilance against leading others into sin and unwavering forgiveness, fueled by faith.
In our daily lives, this invites us to examine our actions, extend grace without limit, and rely on God’s strength when our faith feels insufficient.
Let this Gospel warm your heart, encouraging you to live with compassion and trust. As we reflect, consider: How can I forgive more like Christ today? T
ake a moment to pray: Lord, increase our faith and help us to forgive as You do. Amen. 🙏