Can we forgive?

Grant, O Lord, that as your Son Jesus Christ prayed for his enemles on the cross, so we may have grace to forgive those who wrongfully or scornfully use us, that we ourselves may be able to receive your forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

Forgiveness is tough. When Jesus was praying for his enemies on the cross, there was no chance they were going to be able to hurt the humanity of him ever again. But it's harder to forgive, to give up hurt and anger, to let go of the fear of being hurt or humiliated again, when the other person may have the opportunity to hurt us again. It takes trust to forgive. Initially our trust must be in God's abundant love, which will offer us comfort in all the times we are betrayed by the world. After we trust in God's love, we can have the courage to let down our defenses and begin to trust our enemies and the world around us once again.