Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy times seven. Matthew 18 : 21 - 22
Readings this week Genesis 50 : 15 - 21; Romans 14 : 1 - 12 ; Matthew 18 : 21 - 35
Thought for this week
As Autumn comes change is definitely in the air. We breathe it in early in the mornings, and begin to feel a chill in the evenings.
For many of us change can be disconcerting, worrying, even frightening. There seems so much change in our lives these days, and not always for good.
Yet the change in us Jesus brings is always for the good, because He is the source of goodness. Our Gospel reading this week reflects on forgiveness, and Jesus tells a parable that emphasises forgiveness that offers a change of heart, and the consequences for ourselves and everyone of not accepting that change.
In Psalm 23 we hear how forgiveness flows from the heart of Jesus. “Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life”. Mercy, and the forgiveness won by Jesus pour upon us in our lives, and how we need them! Yet so much of the pain in the world is being caused by people not accepting the change forgiveness brings.
We are called to bring change. It begins with us. How can we personally ensure the forgiveness won by Jesus changes our hearts?
Rev Paul
Prayer for this week
God, who in generous mercy sent the Holy Spirit upon your Church in the burning fire of your love: grant that your people may be fervent in the fellowship of the gospel that, always abiding in you, they may be found steadfast in faith and active in service; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, Amen
Lord God, defend your Church from all false teaching and give to your people knowledge of your truth, that we may enjoy eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen
We give thanks for…..
Our PCC members
Our freedom to gather together to pray and praise the Lord
For the forgiveness we receive in our lives through Jesus