Thursday, May 16, 2013

Harmonizing in the Key of God's Love

All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation
~2 Corinthians 5:18~

More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
~Romans 5:11~



We have all had an experience when we are singing along to a song, at church or in the car, and you hear a voice singing that is just a bit (or a lot) off key. Maybe this is because of a tone deaf singer or possibly due to a failed attempt to harmonize. Either way it is unpleasant and often sends you into 'fight or flight' mode.

When you refuse to forgive, insist on squabbling, build impenetrable walls, and burn bridges, you are creating an experience much like that of hearing those clashing notes.


This is a time of year when family gets together for holidays and graduations. Reuniting with relatives is fun for some, but for others it is cause for tension. My family is crazy (mostly in the fun way). I love them dearly, however, not all of them feel that same love for each other. 

Wrong decisions, hurtful words, divorce, money, and even a questionable look are all reasons that have sent kin into silence and disownment. Some of us may get upset and eventually brush it off, while others are better at holding grudges, which sets them up for bigger hurt. 



Forgiveness is one of the most unique and pure aspects of Christianity. Forgiving doesn't always make sense, in fact it usually disagrees with our instincts. But, as Christians we are called to do it because it is necessary for right relationship with God and with others.

Forgiveness leads to reconciliation. Reconciliation is the act of bringing into harmony or the state of compatibility. It is my strong belief that, in relationships, reconciliation should always be our goal.


If you need help justifying the mending of fences and forgiving others who have hurt or offended you, look to the Almighty God. How many times has man shut Him out? How many times have we offended Him with our words and hurt Him with our choices?

YET, through His amazing love He has forgiven us and pulled us back into His arms. He hasn't simply brushed off His upset--He brought us back to all of the treasure that is His love.

We are reconciled to God. We are His body and are made in His image. Because of this we should work to reconcile ourselves to others and others to Him, just as He has done with us. Treasure is worthless if it's buried away, it is enjoyed more with its distribution.


So, let us all reconcile, let us harmonize in the key of God's Love! 

This is not an easy task, we are all damaged by past pains and driven by ideas of 'justice.' However it is a task that will be the most freeing. 

Forgiveness is a gift and the best gifts are those shared.