The
pain of the past
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving
each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. - Ephesians 4:32
The American Civil War was the bloodiest conflict ever
fought on American soil, leaving close to 750,000 people dead from the North
and the South. Two men on opposing sides, Confederacy President Jefferson Davis
and Union General Ulysses S. Grant, had a sharp disdain for one another.
After both of their deaths, their widows, Varina Davis and Julia Grant, settled near each other.
Despite the bad blood that existed for years between their husbands, the two
became very close friends for the remainder of their lives.
When it comes to reconciliation, perspective is
everything. Had the two widows met during the Civil War, they likely never
would have become friends. But when the conflict was over, they were able to
put aside their differences and have a relationship.
Reconciliation is difficult – but it’s a biblical
command. In the Christian life, forgiveness isn’t optional. Even with your most
bitter enemies, the call on the life of a believer is to forgive and move
toward reconciliation with all people.
That’s hard for many to hear, especially those who have
felt utterly betrayed and abandoned for years. But seek forgiveness and
reconciliation. Move past the pain of the past and let God heal your broken
relationships!
Prayer Challenge
Pray and ask God to give you an attitude of forgiveness
toward others who’ve wronged you in the past.
Questions for Thought
Why do you think letting go of past pain and moving
toward reconciliation is so difficult for many?
Who is someone with whom you can clear the air and begin moving toward reconciliation today?