Excerpt from Matthew 18:15-20 (CEB)

“If your brother or sister sins against you go and correct them. . ."  (CEB)

Reflection by William C. Green

Correction here is what reconciliation requires. And we’re to take the initiative. But when I’ve been hurt by someone I don’t think I should initiate reconciliation. Besides, why should they be interested in being corrected? It seems pointless. It’s easier to stay angry and convince myself I don’t need them anyway. Being a victim and trying to forget is easier than doing something about it.

Meanwhile, the gospel is all about God’s initiative in bridging the breach between ourselves and God, and ourselves and one another. “Gospel” is derived from the old English, “God’s spell.” Under the influence of God’s spell we see more clearly than ever love we haven’t deserved, grace we couldn’t bring on ourselves, and hope when we’d given up. Blessed by initiatives we could not take or deserve—expressions of grace not always recognized or appreciated at the time—we in turn are to take comparable initiatives with others

Few of us have been physically assaulted. But all of us have been psychologically assaulted. We’ve all been trampled on, run over, put down, publicly humiliated, and ridiculed quietly or noisily. Pained as we are, under the spell of love and strength greater than all that, we don’t withdraw or just endure the hurt. We face it, aiming to settle matters that cause offense. Taking this initiative it will be far easier to live with whatever outcome ensues.

Prayer

Almighty God, knowing your love when I was at fault, may I take the same initiative with others when I’m hurt.

About the Author William C. Green, a United Church of Christ minister, is the Director of Long Looking, a consultancy service specializing in fundraising and education for congregations. His new book, 52 Ways to Ignite Your Congregation: Generous Giving, has just been published.

The Daily Devotional is now on Facebook. Become a fan!

Sign up to receive Daily Devotionals

More items written by the Stillspeaking Writers' Group