Chaplains’ Chat

This Term in Chapel we have been looking at how it is that Christians should live as they follow Jesus in their lives. This week, we reflected on the verse of Ephesians 4:31, which states: “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.”

We were reminded of the wonderful example of Nelson Mandela, who, despite being imprisoned for 27 years, held no bitterness towards those who imprisoned him. On his release, he continued to work hard for the good of his country, South Africa, and was the President of the country for six years. Of course, one of the keys to getting rid of bitterness is knowing our position with God. Having been forgiven and knowing that we are dearly loved and in a good relationship with God, this should enable us more and more to see relationships as important as we strive to deepen these relationships. Part of this will be forgiveness of others, even when they do wrong against us. So often anger and disappointment can lead to bitterness. Getting rid of bitterness helps us to uphold deep relationships with those around us.

Rev Anthony Benn
Chaplain