Regardless of how it gets sorted out on a practical level, forgiveness of debts should be language that causes rejoicing among Christians, not language to be resisted.
But the gospel stories remind us that meritโnot mercyโtends to be the driving principle of our lives.
The root of Christian love is not the will to love, but the faith that one is loved. The faith that one is loved by God. That faith that one is loved by God although unworthyโor, rather, irrespective of oneโs worth!
- Thomas Merton
The Church is not a religious community of worshippers of Christ but is *Christ himself* who has taken form among people.
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer
(This is such a staggering truth that should produce awe, humility and love among Christ-followers)