Revd Darren McCallig’s sermon from the Fifteenth Sunday after Trinity, reflecting on Matthew 18:21-22.
Forgiveness is central to Jesus’ teaching and to Christian life, but it is often misunderstood. It does not mean remaining in a dangerous or abusive situation, removing appropriate consequences or pretending that harm never happened.
To forgive is to release, untie and let go. It frees us from being consumed by resentment, bitterness or hatred, whether or not the person who harmed us is sorry. Remembering that we all need mercy can help us extend that same mercy to others.
Through the example of Joan and Gordon Wilson, who forgave those responsible for the Enniskillen bombing that killed their daughter, Darren considers where the strength to forgive can come from. By centring our lives on God’s loving and merciful presence through prayer, silence and sacrament, we can receive the grace to entrust others to that same love and forgiveness.