As I hear myself complain about a person for the umpteenth time, I stop. It’s only a few days out from Ash Wednesday, when I prayed the Litany of Penance with others and we asked God to accept our repentance for, among other things, “uncharitable thoughts toward our neighbors.” As it turns out, I can hardly ask God to accept my repentance unless I actually repent.

Complaining about someone is easy. Choosing to meet them with compassion instead takes much more work. Sigh. I have work ahead of me.

God’s forgiveness is always available. To receive it, my heart must be ready—and the only way to prepare my heart is to admit my wrongdoing, be honest about my actions that hurt or disrespect others, and be willing to make amends.

I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.”
Then you forgave me the guilt of my sin.
Psalm 32:6