Pentecost 16 – Living and Letting Live, Forgiving and Letting Go

Living and Letting Live, Forgiving and Letting Go

A short reflection based on Romans 14:1-12 and Matthew 18:21-35

It's easy to judge others. We judge people’s choices, opinions, habits, politics, worship styles, and even the pace of their faith. Paul reminds the Roman church that every person belongs first to God. We aren’t called to sit in God’s seat, measuring others as though we can see their whole story. Faith grows slowly, and each of us is still learning.

Jesus takes this even further when Peter asks how often he should forgive. Peter thinks seven times sounds generous. Jesus answers with a number so large it breaks the idea of keeping count. Forgiveness isn’t arithmetic. It's a way of living shaped by the mercy of God.

This doesn’t mean ignoring harm or staying in unsafe relationships. Forgiveness isn't denial. It's the holy work of refusing to let bitterness make a home in us. Sometimes forgiveness leads to reconciliation; sometimes it simply opens the door to healing and freedom.

In a world quick to divide into camps, these readings call the Church to be different. We can become communities where disagreement doesn’t destroy love, where newcomers aren’t shamed for still learning, and where people are challenged without being condemned. God has been patient with us, forgiving us again, and again. Now that same grace is entrusted to us. We’re invited to let judgement go, make room for growth, and become people through whom mercy flows.

Leave judgement to God. Encourage and challenge one another without condemning.

Forgiveness frees us. Letting go of bitterness opens space for healing, even when reconciliation isn't possible.

Ngā mihi
Philip

p.s. Worship leaders: You can buy a complete Order of Service and Sermon based on these readings here:   https://philipgarsidebooks.com/products/worship-at-hand-pentecost-16-13-september-2026