January 1, 2023  – Christmas +7 — “Pray For Forgiveness”

“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” 1 John 1:8-10

“When you see a crime punished, you may be inwardly pleased, but always show pity to the suffering offender.” (George Washington’s Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation; number 23; p. 13, Applewood Books”)

One of my favorite parts of our worship Mass comes in the corporate confession, and absolution. That special time invites G-d to heal our guilty hearts and minds. But I am not so sure that we use it appropriately most of the time.

Everyone has a hard time letting go – letting go of our junk, especially the memories of someone hurting our feelings or treating us poorly. That is what this part of the service is supposed to be about. When we bring our difficult memories and feelings to G-d’s heart and to our minds, it should remind us to pray for forgiveness, and to offer the same to our neighbors and congregation members. We come to this time with the idea and the understanding that G-d truly and totally forgives me, and you, and encourages us to forgive ourselves and others.

Exchanging the peace should not be a time to catch up on lunch plans, saying hello to those we have not seen in a while, and complaining about the hymns. The best use of this time is to reflect upon how we might change our ways — do something about our guilt-ridden hearts and minds. Sharing the peace presents us the opportunity we have to act out of love, with a refreshed confidence in G-d’s grace and goodness toward all of us.

What does asking for forgiveness mean to you? What do you think asking for forgiveness means to G-d? Is there someone you need to ask for forgiveness? Find a way to connect with that person and do what you can to make the situation right. Commit your conversation to G-d, and pray for the right words to speak, and a soft heart to listen.

Let us pray: Lord, you offer us unlimited forgiveness. Help us to live with the same forgiving heart. Amen.

Pastor Dave