Gospel Challenges - Forgiveness

Some of the most challenging aspects of the Gospel come in the Sermon on the Mount. For instance, there's the thing about revenge which links into Jesus' discussion with Peter about forgiveness. Peter bravely suggests that he would be prepared to offer seven loads of forgiveness and expects to be commended for his generosity. Instead, he is challenged to multiply his offer by seventy. and that is so ridiculous in terms of counting it up, that it clearly means forgiveness without limit. I wonder where we stand when we measure ourselves up against the Gospel's comments on forgiveness. I rather suspect that, like Peter, we tend to think that seven is a pretty good offer. We like to be forgiven; but there are limits to what we can seriously be expected to do. Jesus doesn't only say that we should be prepared to let someone take advantage of us, as we would see it. He says that we should willingly increase what they ask of us. The damage, as it were, should be doubled. How seriously do we take the challenge of these words - but if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile.