The question of forgiveness is an interesting even perplexing one, posing other related questions such as - What is forgiveness?

How many times am I expected to forgive?

          How does forgiveness affect me?

The three readings this week, whilst each highlighting an aspect of forgiveness, can, on closer reading answer our questions regarding forgiveness and perhaps lead us to a greater understanding and appreciation of the attribute of forgiveness.

 Joyce Rupp has a timely and pertinent reminder for us “ The one who follows Jesus and speaks His message may find it not easy to hear or accept - in this case - forgiveness.”

 The Gospel is an example of Jesus sharing and showing us His understanding and focus on relationships in the community. There was a variety of backgrounds, political affiliations and personalities. Not much different from our present day! The need for patience, understanding, apologising and saying sorry (forgiveness) is still required.

 Forgiveness does not mean “forgetting” or “ pretending” something did not happen. It does not mean we don’t get angry but rather we accept that whatever hurt or offended us may always remain with us but working on forgiveness may/can relieve the negative feelings. We need to focus on the belief that God loves and forgives us beyond measure.

 Richard Rohr says “ forgiveness is simply the religious word for letting go”. It involves an intentional decision to let go of resentment and anger as well as being aware that negative energy can have us engaging in petty and unforgiving behaviour towards others. The first readings highlights this and Paul in his letter reminds us this week of our human connectedness and how our thoughts, actions can affect those in our community.

 True forgiveness is from the heart. The heart being the core of our being and the centre of one cognition and emotion. To forgive from the heart is to forgive with the whole of one’s being.

 Whilst we can find forgiveness difficult we need to be aware of how not being forgiven affects us. What does it do to us and our relationships and then to others and their relationships? Is the future of relationships always going to be encumbered by the past?

 However often we pray the Lord’s Prayer do we always understand the significance of “ forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us?”

 The readings this week, reinforce the teaching of Jesus about forgiveness being continual and unlimited if we wish to be called disciples of Jesus.

 Ken and Carolyn Evenden