Begin With Forgiveness☦⛪ Sermon at Orthodox Church, Brisbane (Fr Stephen David)

The Gospel sets the tone for Lent: if we are unwilling to forgive others, we cannot sincerely ask God to forgive us. Throughout Lent, the prayers and hymns repeatedly call upon God's mercy, but we can only receive that mercy fully if we are willing to show mercy ourselves. Forgiveness is often difficult, especially when we have been deeply hurt. However, holding onto resentment ultimately harms us. Forgiveness is not always a feeling but often a process of choosing to act with kindness, praying