Pause

Reconciliation is nothing short of a miracle. Reconciliation preserves a relationship that could have just as easily been flung aside. Reconciliation is always a good reason for celebration. It is life-giving.

The first step in reconciliation is letting go of the past. The more we hold on to the way we think things should have been, the less likely we are to see the opportunity emerging for a brand new way. God is always able to offer us a new ending. All we have to do is recognize that the story isn’t over yet, and turn back to the One who loves us unconditionally.

Listen

I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.

Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding, whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle, else it will not stay near you.

Many are the torments of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.

Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.

Psalm 32:8-11

Think

Life is a learning experience. We make mistakes. We fail.

But what is most important is that we do not let mistakes and failures become the end to our story. We have a teacher who is not content with us being broken.

To the contrary, we are made whole by the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus. His life lifts ours up and gives it new meaning and purpose.

David Schaefers

Pray

I will shout for joy, O Lord, because you have heard my prayer. You have sought me out, even when I was down. You have walked beside me, and guided me on difficult paths. Help me as I seek to follow. Amen

Go

God loves a new beginning. It doesn’t matter who you were yesterday, last month, or last year; if you are still breathing, God has a brand new plan for your life. Labels and stereotypes mean nothing to the one who created you.

Your story was made to intersect God’s bigger story over and over again. Wherever you are, God has put you there; God has a purpose in your being where you are. Christ, who lives in your heart, has something in mind to do through you, exactly where you are. Believe this and go in God’s grace, power, and love.