Matthew presents us with a God who lives with His people "Where two or three meet in my name, I shall be there with them", and knows of their human frailty. In matters of wrong-doing, Jesus asks us to be merciful with one another, to discuss with reason and allow for a change in attitude.

As Christians born of the New Testament faith, we are perhaps too conscious that God forgives our human weakness. Do we sometimes even take Him for granted, and allow ourselves to become lax and careless?

Jesus calls to us constantly, reminding us of His presence among us. In Him alone can we find the strength and resolution to live a truly Christian life. In our weakness we can draw on His strength. His love will drown our fear. With St Paul we can say:

Though I may fail in the eyes of the world
        There's a home in glory for me.