Forgiveness and Mercy

‘Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.’  
(Luke 11:4)

We need to be reminded that in the Lord’s Prayer (and in our Prayer Book)
it is simply assumed that we sin. There has only been one perfect person.
We need, then, to ask for forgiveness regularly and from the heart.
And at the very centre of the good news there is forgiveness because of what Jesus has done for us.
Our debts are paid; God will no longer judge us If we understand this,
if we grasp the wonder of God’s mercy, then it will show itself in us forgiving also,
not demanding the reparation which sin deserves. This is hard.
But it is what the love of God has done for us.

Question for thought:  Can I truly pray the Lord’s prayer?

Loving Lord, our hearts are heavy with the constant conflict in South Sudan.
We  give thanks that members continue to serve local families through prayer, outreach,
marriage guidance counseling and immediate community assistance.
Help them to persevere and to share your love in all they do.  Amen.