Reading of the Law of God
Repay no one evil
for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If
possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never
avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written,
“Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” Romans 12.17-19
Confession of Sin
Our Father, when we
are wronged it is so easy for us to think in terms of defense and not peace, of
asserting ourselves and not leaving the matter to You. We are so quick to
protect our ‘rights’. In this we sin, and so often we fail to realize it.
Forgive us. Change our hearts so that we might become more like Jesus. Amen.
Declaration of Pardon
The Lord is merciful
and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always
chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according
to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens
are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions
from us. Psalm 103.8-12
May the God of love
bring us back to himself, forgive us our sins, and assure us of his eternal
love in Jesus Christ our Lord.
The Book of
Common Prayer