As I sit here, wondering what I might write this week, I looked at Sunday’s readings and the first one says it all. There’s no point writing for the sake of writing when it has been put so well before. This is a reading worth thinking about this week, not least as we mark the 10th Anniversary of a tragic day born of violence, misunderstanding and hatred. Sadly it is just one anniversary among many – too many – where blind hatred had its way.
Thousands of years ago it was written …..
Resentment and anger, these are foul things,
and both are found with the sinner.
He who exacts vengeance will experience the vengeance of the Lord,
who keeps strict account of sin.
Forgive your neighbour the hurt he does you,
and when you pray, your sins will be forgiven.
If a man nurses anger against another,
can he then demand compassion from the Lord?
Showing no pity for a man like himself,
can he then plead for his own sins?
Mere creature of flesh, he cherishes resentment;
who will forgive him his sins?
Remember the last things, and stop hating,
remember dissolution and death, and live by the commandments.
Remember the commandments,
and do not bear your neighbour ill-will;
remember the covenant of the Most High, and overlook the offence.
(Ecclesiasticus 27:30-28:7 )
It matters little where you worship, or what name you give to God but for those who claim to believe in God surely there is no room for doubt. God does not want us to hurt, kill or even dislike one another.
If we claim to live by His Way, then there is only one path to follow ………..
Live and let live. Amen!