“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13, NIV).
Earlier this week, Chocolate and Chip each received a pardon from the President of the United States. Neither turkey appeared appreciative of the mercy he had received. Both appeared to be in a foul mood.
Tomorrow, families across the country will be setting down together for the annual Thanksgiving feast. Unfortunately for many, the bird on the table won’t be the only turkey in the room. You know the individual. The one who bastes another unsuspecting family member for their perceived shortcomings.
Sadly, many family gatherings experience conflict due to some unfinished business. Unfinished business includes previous issues that have not been resolved. Holding on to old hurts is often the primary cause of conflict among loved ones. Yesterday’s wounds resurface and become today’s discord.
Paul strongly charged individual Christians to forgive the grievances we have with one another. Of course, it takes a minimum of two people to reconcile their differences. However, forgiveness is an individual matter. Forgiveness is also a conscious decision not to retaliate against the person who has offended you.
Forgiving people is hard. Asking for forgiveness is even more difficult. Either way, forgiveness is the first step toward peace.
So, before you sit down for dinner tomorrow, ask Jesus for healing from any unfinished business you are carrying with you. Similarly, ask him for the strength to seek forgiveness if you have been the cause of someone else’s hurt. Were you to take these actions, my hunch is the ambiance, if not the meal, will be much more appetizing as you gobble down your fare.
Have a HAPPY Thanksgiving!