November 29 - 2 Corinthians 2:5-6:13

Good morning everyone,

We begin our reading today with Paul explaining to the church it is time to forgive the man who had been punished by them and since repented. He needed their forgiveness and acceptance, the preverbal ball was in the church’s court, it was the right thing to do as individuals and also as the family in Christ to be able to grow together. As a Christian person, or even if one has not accepted the Lord into their hearts, when someone has confessed they were wrong, asked for forgiveness and changed their ways, we should forgive them and move forward. This is a hard pill for some to swallow, they will hang onto a grudge, shunning individuals for years and years. It creates division and an awkwardness in families and honestly to what end? 

As a church or parent or even a spouse we are called to confront and comfort. That would require two things, talking and hearing. Oh I am not talking about shouting and listening, I am talking about one person who loves another enough to lovingly point out how the other is getting off course and for the other to hear with an open mind and thankful heart. I am talking about when someone’ s feelings get hurt or they feel wronged by another for them to go to the offender with loving dialog lay it all out and for the other to hear the heart with out getting all defensive and barking back. Does this make sense? 

Friends, we are but mere humans and having said that it goes without saying we are going to make mistakes, poor judgement calls and bad choices but they do not have to end up with our being ostracized from society or even just our circle of friends or family. Paul says, “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?” Communicate, talk with one another, I know it sounds crazy and that most people are afraid to do it, but if we would constructively speak and hear, if we would eliminate “self” and “shackle pride”, friends life would be so much more pleasant and people would not feel like they have been sent to redemption island, forever branded, relationships scarred, for merely being young or making a poor choice.

In Hebrews 12 it says, “Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.  See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled.” Right? Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Amen?

Have a great day and to God be the glory.

God bless you all…..