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.
Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Psalm 32:1
We often think of religion as being a way to know what is right. The Psalms remind us that a relationship with God is also a way that we may live truly happy lives. When we have been true about who we are, and we have named what has come between us and God, we leave ourselves open for a blessing.
God forgives. That makes all the difference in the world.
If we are going to live in the world that God has made, perhaps we should realize that forgiveness unlocks all the hidden levels we have been trying to open.
David Schaefers
You forgive when I cannot. You accept when I choose to ignore. Help me to be more like you, O God. By your love, guide me to that place where I may become whole, by your Spirit. Amen.
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.