MONTHLY DEVOTIONAL FOR 19 JUNE
June 19, 2025
FEAST OF SAINT (BLESSED) VINCENT KAUN, MARTYR OF JAPAN – 20th JUNE
June 20, 2025
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
19 JUNE, 2025
Matthew 6:7-15
“And in praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words.
Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
Pray then like this: Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
And forgive us our debts, As we also have forgiven our debtors;
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil.
For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you;
but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
It’s striking how frequently Jesus calls us to forgive. In His Sermon on the Mount, He continually urges us to show mercy and to pardon others. Today’s Gospel emphasizes the fallout of ignoring these teachings. Jesus tells us to seek forgiveness “as we forgive.” He then warns that not forgiving others will block our own forgiveness, urging us to truly forgive from the heart.
Even after choosing to forgive, anger might remain. But emotions shouldn’t hinder your choice. Forgiveness starts with a willful decision to let go, recognizing the need because of the wrongdoing. If you forgive but don’t feel peaceful right away, keep forgiving in your heart. Persist in forgiving, identify any lingering anger. Decide to forgive those you’re upset with now and in the future. By choosing forgiveness over bitterness, you’ll lighten the heavy load of unforgiveness.
PRAYER
Merciful Lord, forgive me and help me forgive others. I regret my sins and seek Your mercy. Today, I choose to release anger and forgive those who wronged me to embrace Your mercy. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen
