Jesus has some pretty tough things to say in the gospel today. Jesus makes the point that we will be judged and forgiven as we forgive. But, I believe also that Jesus very much wanted us to be free in our lives. He wants us to be free so that we can truly be open and attentive to life, to others and to God. We all know how much freedom is much more a thing of the mind and heart than it is about physical freedom.
People can enjoy physical freedom and yet be trapped by what they feel inside.
Jesus is inviting us to take control. It is so often our very heart that is being affected, not our physical freedom. We come here today to share in the Lord's peace and joy, but so often, we are the ones who hold the key that allows that peace to enter our lives.