There was a man who often found himself comparing his family to his neighbor's. When his neighbor bought a new car, he also felt he deserved one. Similarly, after learning his neighbor's daughter had married into wealth, he believed his daughter deserved an even better match. However, his perspective shifted dramatically when tragedy struck his neighbor's family, leaving their son comatose in the hospital. During this difficult period, the man ceased his constant rivalry, finding peace only when he saw his neighbor in distress!

In today's gospel parable, the Apostle Peter seeks to impress Jesus by articulating questions and answers about transgression and forgiveness. Peter's understanding of forgiveness was likely significantly shaped by his cultural background. His inherited perspective is grounded in earthly metrics. Jesus, however, directs him toward a loftier standard: Forgiveness can become shallow or artificial when based solely on human perception unless it is anchored in God's power and mercy.