The other day, I was pondering the question of an unconditional relationship. You see, there have been occasions where, out of the blue, events of the past have been brought back to awareness and it is usually when others are around to witness it. Now, for those who brought it up and for the subject person it is old news from the past and probably had been put to rest way back when. For those who were just made aware, it is fresh news, and their opinion of the subject person is usually tainted. It could have happened twenty years earlier but to someone fresh into the conversation, it could have been yesterday. In my opinion, if forgiveness has been asked, remorse has been expressed, let the waters of forgiveness wash over it and cleanse it away. So why do others feel it necessary to resurrect the past? Is it to garner power over another? Is it to embarrass or cut someone down? Is it to deflect attention from one's own deficiencies by putting a light on someone else’s? And what if this person is a close friend who continues to bring up the past in awkward moments? I tell you the truth (one of my favourite Christ sayings), this is not a way to maintain a relationship, and yet so many people put up with it. So, what can we do about it?
Consider teaching people about the truth of Grace, Grace means forgiving and loving a person unconditionally, in fact, it is extending perfect forgiveness when it is not deserved, you know, the kind Christ extends to us all. I had a person bring up my, not so pristine, past a few times in certain situations that could have caused embarrassment, but I reminded my brother in faith that my past has been forgiven by the one who counts. My past shaped me but it is my faith that defines me now.
Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.
And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption...
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Eph 4:21-24, 30-32. NLT
We invite you to join us this Sunday as Pastor Todd explores this Ephesians passage. The service will be broadcast online (see links below), or you are more than welcome to join us in person at 10:30 AM, at 402 Main Ave. W in Sundre, AB.
Blessings,
Our Mission “To live the love of Christ”
