In the commandment to love our neighbours as ourselves, we can lose sight of the need to love ourselves in order to fully embrace our neighbour. When we focus on our wrongdoings, our mistakes and mis-steps, we lose out on opportunities, growth, and future possibilities while we dwell in the past. Though it is difficult, Christ Jesus offers us ways to accept that we are loved and that, through him and through faith, we can know that we will be whole, and can heal because we are loved by God.

How might we forgive ourselves, so we can offer love and life authentically and not remain mired in self-doubt?

Let us live in the light and celebrate the love of God for all – including ourselves and any mistakes we have made. May God be with you this week and hold you gently, and may you be gentle with yourself as well. 

Notes

Mending Mistakes and Forgiving Ourselves