Forgiveness is primarily an ecclesiastical event. Not a moral rule but an experience of joy and of paradise.
When I ask forgiveness from God, actually I ask from him to give me a place to stand near to Him. To give me a place to stand in His Kingdom.
When I apologize to my brothers, actually I ask from them to give me a place to stand near them. To give a place to stand and participate in their life.
Forgiveness means to accept that sin brings division and loneliness while repentance brings unity and communion of love.
Forgiveness also means to being able to look at my brother’s face. In the face of my brother I see the joy and blessing of God.
Today, we sing during the solemn service of Vespers, the first service of Great Lent: Do not turn away your face …
My God, do not turn away your face, because your face is my salvation and my eternal joy.
My brother, do not turn away your face, because your face is my joy and my paradise.
Forgiveness Sunday
February 26, 2017
Metropolitan Nektarios
of Hong Kong and South East Asia
