Minister’s message: War and peace

When the Lord Jesus was an infant there was a festival in Jerusalem, writes Rev James Gatherer. The celebrants rose up against the Roman governor who sent mounted soldiers to put down the rebellion. Thousands of civilians were massacred.

Once again the Middle East was embroiled in violence and bloodshed. Today we are seeing a repeat of history with the unarmed, the young and elderly losing their lives in a man-made conflict which will breed revenge for generations.

When Jesus was an adult, that desire for revenge burned strong among many of the children who had now grown up. ‘How many times should I forgive – seven times?’ Jesus was asked. ‘No,’ Jesus replied, ‘you must forgive seventy times seven times ’.

For many, forgiveness is still a hurting issue. How do we forgive those who have done us wrong? How can we be freed from that burning desire for revenge?

Forgiveness was a gift He freely offered the crowds who came to him – when they found forgiveness in Him they were able to forgive others. We, too, can forgive when we are forgiven.

9.30am every Sunday in the church hall; 11.00 a.m. every Sunday in the church – is time to ask for and receive forgiveness for ourselves and for the world. It is when we have been blessed that we can bless others.

• Photo: Palestinians inspect the damage following an Israeli airstrike on the El-Remal area in Gaza City on October 9, 2023 (Source)