“If we have offended the Lord, let us not increase grief upon grief, doubting His forgiveness; if we have reviled His holiness and justice, let us at least honor His mercy; and while the whole world sings of His goodness, would our heart be the only one hesitating to pay Him this praise?” St. Joseph Cafasso (1811-1860)

The classic sin of Judas was not that he betrayed Jesus for money, but that he failed to remember the Master’s many teachings and signs of forgiveness and mercy. The beautiful witness of Peter is, after he denied Jesus to protect his own life, he wept, when Jesus’ gaze of mercy met his. He not only repented but he professed his love for Jesus three times for having denied him three times. Judas’ rejection of the grace of mercy saddened Jesus. Peter’ acceptance, gladdened Jesus. It was the grace of his crucifixion bearing fruit in Peter as it did in the Good Thief. We will sin. But will we remain in sin, because we don’t feel God can or will forgive us, because of what we did? Or will we sincerely repent? The sooner we do, the sooner will the angels rejoice.