#matt. 18

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Forgiveness in the Kingdom of Heaven. Fr. David Ousley, Nov. 4, 2007.

Matthew 18:23

The joy of being forgiven is a joy greater than that of being righteous and not needing forgiveness. Heaven, we are told, will be full of sinners, so we must acknowledge that through our sins we are in debt to God, we must be open to his forgiving the debt, and we must willingly forgive those who have sinned against us. If forgiving and being forgiven does not bring us joy, then neither will the Kingdom. (via St. Michael’s Church, Philadelphia)

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St. Michael and all Angels. Fr. David Ousley, Sep. 29, 2007

Matthew 18:10

"Their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven."

The Angels are not sent to deliver us from our proper responsibilities or the consequences of our actions. Christ did not call upon them to deliver him from temptation or the Cross. Rather they are to strengthen us during our trials. Their main work, however, is to praise and worship the Lord. We join in this angelic worship through the Liturgy. (via St. Michael's Church, Philadelphia)