October 2026: Thoughts from Huw

Dear friends

In Matthews Gospel Ch 18v21-35, Jesus makes it clear that if we want God to forgive us, we must forgive others. We all know how hard it can be to forgive. At the same time we know how lovely it is to be forgiven.

In our Sunday worship we often begin by asking forgiveness for our sins. As we do so we should also ask for the grace to be able to forgive those who have sinned against us.

When we forgive we free ourselves of the burden of bitterness, and we free the other person of the burden of guilt. But our forgiveness must come from the heart, which means it must be true, sincere and warm. A cold forgiveness is not much use. Forgiveness should start now. Putting it off only deepens the wound, prolongs bitterness and postpones happiness. Life is too short, too fleeting to harbour grudges and resentments. Today is the time to forgive and God will deliver us from the poison of bitterness. God will also give us the grace to forgive others from the heart, those who have offended us.

Prayer; All powerful God, grant that we who stand always in need of your mercy, and who love to receive it, may be ready to show mercy to others. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

With good wishes and prayers
Huw